Lunati’s Journey: A Mother’s Determination and the Power of Care

Asavela sits beside her son Lunati in a hospital room at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, a protective smile on her face as she watches him play with a small toy. Lunati, only a few years old, is recovering from a severe burn accident that left both mother and child grappling with fear and uncertainty.

On the 25th of September, Asavela was at work when the unthinkable happened. “There was a kettle on the table,” she recounts, her voice steady but tinged with emotion. “It fell, and Lunati fell into the hot water.” At the time, she was away from home, focusing on her responsibilities, but nothing could prepare her for the moment she received the distressing call. “I was on my way home, and my brother came running out with Lunati. He was naked and crying,” she recalls. Confusion flooded her mind as she struggled to comprehend the situation. “What happened? What’s going on?” she frantically asked, her heart racing as they rushed to the local clinic for help.

When they arrived at the clinic, Lunati’s condition was assessed. However, Asavela knew he needed more immediate care. “He wasn’t eating, he was vomiting. I knew he was sick,” she explains. Her determination to get Lunati the treatment he needed drove to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital, this time without an appointment. “I just took him and came here,” she says, a hint of pride in her voice. Upon arrival, Lunati was admitted immediately, and his condition was taken seriously.

Reflecting on their time at the Hospital, Asavela shares, “They take good care of him here.” After a week of treatment, Lunati began to recover, and the relief was palpable. Asavela returned to work, but her maternal instincts remained vigilant. “I noticed something was still wrong with him, so I took him back to the clinic,” she explains.

Asavela’s love for her son has been unwavering. She expresses gratitude for the care Lunati is receiving, emphasising how vital it is for families to feel supported during difficult times. “It’s hard as a mother to see your child unwell,” she reflects. “But I’m thankful for the Hospital; they really do care.”

As Lunati plays quietly beside her, Asavela knows they are on the path to healing, especially after his wound was gently washed using the newly installed burns wash bed. This innovative equipment not only aids in providing effective wound care but also eases the workload for nurses, allowing them to deliver care more efficiently. Asavela’s story is a powerful reminder of a mother’s instinct, the importance of advocacy in healthcare, and the incredible resilience of young patients like Lunati. With the right care and unwavering support, they both look forward to brighter days ahead.