Asia Downunder - Heart Operations in Fiji

The final Asia Downunder for 2006 is a special about the Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation. Each year the foundation arranges a team of Kiwi doctors and nurses to perform life-saving heart operations in Fiji for some of those unable to afford treatment. A number of the medical team are Fijian-born, like lead surgeon Parma Nand. The inadequacies of the Fijian health system are touched on, as well as the effects of poverty on health. A local gives his assessment of how the poor are treated in Fiji, and the Health Minister provides a surprising response. The Fijian military coup occurred a week after filming. 

Bit scared. But I think I can manage, because I’ve been praying and meditating and I know that the Lord will help me to go through this.    

– Fijian local Ana Qimanavanua on her upcoming cardiac surgery, at the start of this episode

Key Cast & Crew

Jeff Avery

Editor, Editor

Melissa Lee

Producer, Presenter

Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum

Director, Reporter

Malcolm Smith

Composer - Theme Music

Elton Sharplin

Sound Recordist

Jude Callen

Network Executive