Every year, Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Awareness Week runs from 7–14 February, shining a light on a condition that affects many families around the world — and here in Fiji. Each year, approximately 200 children in Fiji are born with CHD, making congenital heart disease the most common birth defect in newborns.

At ISS, we marked the week with a range of meaningful activities to help raise awareness and deepen understanding within our school community. Students learned about CHD through informative videos featuring children and families who have received free, life-changing Gift of Life heart surgery. We also shared important facts about congenital heart defects and highlighted the incredible work being done by the Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital to support children in Fiji.

One particularly powerful story was Avlin’s journey. If you haven’t yet watched it, we highly recommend taking a few minutes to do so:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIonAdDoD1g

To conclude the week, classes participated in a quiz based on what they had learned — adding a fun element of friendly competition. It was a close contest, but in the end, class 503 claimed the win!

Fundraising efforts were also a wonderful display of community spirit. The Primary School organised a popcorn and bake sale, while the Secondary School hosted a gold coin donation drive. CHD awareness pins were sold through the Primary Office and during lunchtime by enthusiastic student volunteers.

As the week progressed, excitement and support for the cause continued to grow. It was heartwarming to see so many students and staff dressed in red and blue on Friday in solidarity with children affected by CHD.

Thanks to the collective efforts of our ISS community, we raised an impressive $1,755.35 for the Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital.

Vinaka vakalevu to everyone who contributed, participated, and supported this important cause.

Solesolevaki — working together for the greater good of our community.