RASHIDA Bano was supposed to be in New Zealand saying her wedding vows and planning her future with her husband.
However, a random medical check at Lautoka Hospital in March diagnosed a problem with the 24-year-olds heart it was beating too fast. Maybe it was the excitement of her impending nuptials or perhaps the thought of exploring a new country.
Whatever it was, Ms Bano had to put all her plans on hold to address her heart problems. However, all her anxieties were put to rest after she was successfully operated on by the Sydney Adventist Hospitals Operation Open Heart team.
Speaking to The Fiji Times, Ms Bano said prior to the medical check-up, a prerequisite for her immigration visa to New Zealand, she had no idea her heart was beating faster than normal.
I didnt have any previous problems with my heart and it was only after I went for the check-up that I knew something was wrong, she said.
I was a little afraid before I went into the operating theatre but I got over it.
The doctors repaired a valve in my heart so now everything is OK.
Her relieved mother, Saira Bano, said the family was extremely grateful to the doctors and nurses of Operation Open Heart for their kindness and professional care.
We would especially like to thank Dr Jayme Bennet and the staff of Colonial War Memorial Hospital for all their help, she said.
And with the new valve in her heart, the young lady from Lomolomo is quietly eager to see what her future holds.
I am very excited now and looking forward to going to New Zealand for my marriage, she said.