Cure Kids Fiji Big Drives for Little Lives Fiji Open raises FJD $37,500 to support child health initiatives crucial to improving the lives of children across the country
Cure Kids Fiji’s Big Drives for Little Lives Fiji Open held at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club on Saturday April 12 successfully raised FJD $37,500. The funds will directly support Cure Kids Fiji’s child health initiatives – the Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Programme and the Fiji Oxygen Programme – both crucial to improving the lives of children across the country.
Cure Kids Country Manager, Dr Jimaima Kailawadoko-Matainacake says the event was a huge success as it brought people together to make a real difference in children’s health.
“We are incredibly grateful to all the sponsors, the teams that registered, the players that showed up, and our volunteers for their amazing support. These funds will allow our team to reach more communities through screening, training, awareness sessions, and outreach efforts for both programmes, —especially in rural areas.”
Fiji has one of the highest prevalence rates of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and RHD globally.
“Statistics shows that approximately one child in every classroom may be affected, and at least 60 lose their lives to this preventable condition annually.”
Dr Jimaima also highlighted the urgent need to support respiratory care, with severe pneumonia, and neonatal illnesses among the leading causes of child mortality in under 5 years in Fiji.
“Each year, over 200 children under the age of 5 succumb to pneumonia and neonatal illnesses in Fiji.”
“We remain committed to reducing preventable diseases and improving access to healthcare for vulnerable children.”
Cure Kids Fiji extends sincere gratitude to all sponsors, teams and players, and all who made the event possible.