Most of us are used to the “Travellers Trots” when arriving in a new country. When something serious is diagnosed it can be daunting. It is October aka Pinktober so it is still recommended to continue with normal medical screenings. Remember early detection is vital.
The Fiji Cancer Society page suggests to put a pink ribbon on your profile pic to show you have been screened for breast or cervical cancer or that you pledge to make it a priority this year.
Pinktober is a good reminder for all of us. Just because we are all “living in paradise” on a “permanent holiday” (please add your own sarcastic voice!!) doesn’t mean we can ignore our own health.
I recommend ensuring you, your family and your staff are all checked regularly. If something comes up in general screening in Fiji and there is an option to go overseas to have a second opinion I would recommend that. On a personal level I had something picked up here in Fiji. I was lucky enough to have insurance to get a second opinion. I jumped on a plane and was given the all clear within a week. Phew.
When it comes to domestic staff they become family members. The idea of one of them or their family being sick is awful. They will not have the option of jumping on a plane. That is why early detection is vital. Most doctors here tell me that people will try everything else before western medicine. That results in late detection which then reinforces the concept that “nothing can be done”.
Taking your staff and their families to the doctor is a good idea. The time spent and support that you give will ensure their well being. The education in the past was not based on awareness, so helping spread the word for NCDs like cancer is really helping Fiji overall.
