The 2014 “Bushells Fiji biggest Morning Tea” was launched on Friday, September 5 by the Minister for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni.
The event which started in 2006 and organised annually by the Fiji Cancer Society, is designed to raise awareness on cancer in the country and at the same time build a cancer hospice in Fiji.
In launching the event, the Minister said that the initiative is not only a way to raise funds and awareness but also encourages networking and discussion on cancer.
“Over 300 thousand dollars was raised between the years 2006 to 2012 which was used in the Society’s “Patient & Client care” program,” Dr Luveni told participants and guests at the morning tea.
‘In Fiji, cancer is the third leading cause of deaths which accounts for 10 percent of all deaths and almost three times more in females compared to males.”
Dr Luveni said the challenge that needs to be addressed is to reduce statistics through awareness programs, cancer screening, timely treatment and counselling.
The Ministry of Social Welfare had set up a wellness centre at the recent Women’s Expo which will be coordinated and facilitated by the Ministry of Health and Fiji Cancer Society.
An average of 80 to 100 organisations participate in the tea event each year.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was also signed between the Fiji Cancer Society and Motibhai Group for an additional five years to work on Bushells Fiji Biggest Morning Tea campaign.
MINFO