Regardless of her high salary while working in the Ministry of Health for years, Fuamatala Tofilua Taelevai found something more valuable that led her to transition to a Non-Government Organisation.
Fuamatala, a nurse by profession for almost 20 years, had served in various District Hospitals around the country.
Starting her career at the age of 23, she initially aimed to earn from her work to provide for her family, like every other public servant.
She accomplished this when she received a good salary from the government.
As time passed, her motivations shifted away from financial gain. Money was no longer the primary reason for her daily work.
Instead, her performance was driven by the love she felt for her patients.
Engaging in fruitful conversations with new people at the hospitals she worked at became rewarding for Fuamatala.
She cherished the words of encouragement from elderly patients during regular check-ups, establishing powerful bonds with them.
She treated all patients as she would her own family.
“The bond I have established with them is powerful and it has kept me going, knowing I have a strong support system. I treat all patients like how I care for my own family,” Fuamata stated.
Fuamatala’s satisfying service led to requests from cancer patients for her care.
Despite lacking the necessary skills initially, she accepted the challenge, recognising the hope she could bring to cancer survivors.
Witnessing neglected and isolated individuals with no one to care for them due to their conditions inspired Fuamatala to conduct research on non-communicable diseases, particularly cancer.
Her successful research, highly valued by the Ministry of Health, further fueled her dedication.
Eventually, Fuamatala chose to leave the Ministry and join the Samoa Cancer Society, becoming the only registered nurse dedicated to caring for cancer patients.
“Caring for children at the end of their life was a challenge on its own for me. But a strong team at the Cancer Society meant I never cried alone,” she said.
Despite the challenges, including caring for terminally ill children, she found solace in the supportive team at the Cancer Society.
Reflecting on her journey, Fuamatala acknowledged the distress of seeing people succumb to cancers that could have been treated in countries with better resources.
However, she remained passionate about her work and the incredible efforts of the Samoa Cancer Society.
Fuamatala, hailing from Lalomauga and Utulaelae Falealili, has been with the Samoa Cancer Society (SCS) for six years.
She graduated from the National University of Samoa and attended Malifa, Leulumoega College, and Avele College.
