My imPACTful journey

I am an Anaesthetist trainee registrar currently studying towards my Diploma in Anaesthesia (first year of training) in Suva, Fiji.

I hail from the beautiful island of Ambae, one of 83 islands in the volcanic archipelago of Vanuatu. My maternal links stretch from the shores of the Solomon Islands to the palms of Fiji. This is my Melanesian triangle.

My journey into Anaesthesia began with a hope of following in the footsteps of my late maternal Grandfather, Dr Japheth Ramofunu Fa’arondo, who was also an Anaesthetist
with subspecialty interests in Paediatric Anaesthesia. However, this interest blossomed into my newfound passion for providing safe, effective care during surgical procedures. The beauty of Fiji and the warmth of its people inspire my work daily.

I first heard about the New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists Pacific Anaesthesia Collaborative Training (PACT) programme from my Senior Anaesthetist Consultant,
Dr Christian Leepo, in June 2022. But it was not until I attended my first Pacific Society of Anaesthetists’ (PSA) conference in September that same year that I met PACT sponsored trainees and learned from their testimonials about the incredible impact PACT has on anaesthesia training in the Pacific Region. I was eager to get involved.

PACT significantly enriched my training experience when it favoured my application request for sponsorship in the Post Graduate Diploma in Anaesthesia Programme in Fiji. It has provided access to vital resources, mentorship from experienced Anaesthetists and opportunities for hands-on practice. It has broadened my knowledge of anaesthetic techniques and improved my confidence in the operating room. Additionally, PACT fosters a supportive community of professionals who share insights and experiences, which has been invaluable.

My training here in Suva involves a structured approach, balancing theoretical learning with practical experience. This includes workshops, simulation scenarios and supervised clinical practice. I engage in regular assessments and feedback sessions, which help me track my progress and identify areas for improvement. The opportunity to learn from both local and international experts has been particularly beneficial.

I aspire to become a leader in anaesthesia within my community and contribute to improving healthcare services across my Melanesian triangle and beyond. My goal is to advance my expertise and eventually mentor future anaesthetists, ensuring that we can provide top-notch surgical care in our region. I also hope to participate in initiatives that enhance access to
anaesthesia and education in rural areas.

One of the hardest aspects of training in Suva, just like back home in Port Vila and Honiara alike, is the limited resources and staff available compared to more urbanised regions. This can make it challenging to gain exposure to a wide variety of cases. Additionally, we sometimes must contend with a high patient load and the need to prioritise care with limited supplies.

Despite the challenges, these factors foster resilience and creativity in problem-solving, vital skills for any clinician.

To my fellow Anaesthetists, I urge you to consider supporting PACT with your donations. Your contributions provide invaluable resources and opportunities that make a real difference in the lives of anaesthesia professionals in the Pacific region. By investing in the PACT programme, you’re not only enhancing our training but also helping to improve patient care and safety for countless individuals. Together, we can cultivate a new generation of anaesthetists who will continue to serve our communities with skill and compassion.

I am Angelline Fa’arondo Phatu Toaliu, and this is my imPACTful journey.