23/09/2026
Former St Johns Worker Battles Cancer And Appeals For Help
24/09/2036
At 27, Waru Kivali has gone from helping save lives as a St Johns Ambulance worker to fighting for his own, as he battles Kaposi's sarcoma.
The Gavuone man, from Central Province, was diagnosed with a rare skin cancer in July after noticing black spots appearing on his upper body, including his face.
Kivali said he had been visiting the dermatology clinic at Port Moresby General Hospital, when doctors carried out further tests, including a skin biopsy, before confirming the diagnosis.
"I was surprised, but I had a positive view that God has a plan for each and everyone of us, and He (God) will always have a plan for my life," he said.
Since diagnosis, life has changed dramatically.
Kivali said he had become wheelchair-bound, was unable to continue working, and was admitted to Port Moresby General Hospital for the first time in his life.
"I was more like a crippled person," he said.
Despite the physical challenges, Kivali remains determined to continue his treatment and regain his ability to walk again.
He is undergoing Chemotherapy and has received only one of the six doses required.
The treatment, liposomal doxorubicin, is not available in the country and has to be sourced through a pharmacy.
Kivali said he approached Chemcare, and was told its Australian supplier could provide the medication at the costs of K3,238.70 per dose.
With help from his family, supporters and others, he secured his first dose, which was administered on September 1.
His next treatment is scheduled for September 15, but the family has told the family its next order is expected to arrive tomorrow.
This has prompted an urgent appeal for help, with Kivali needing two doses costing K6,477.40.
"If I don't take my chemo on time, other complications might arise," he said.
Kivali said the support he had received since his diagnosis had been overwhelming, coming from his immediate and extended family, work colleagues, friends and former school mates.
"There are five of us siblings, and I am the fourth," he said.
"The support I've received throughout this journey is unimaginable."
Kivali said people had supported him through prayers, financial contributions, goods and well wishes.
"I am so blessed and greatful to have all of them supporting me in one way or another," he said.
"God truly blessed me with these incredible people."
Before becoming ill, Kivali worked with the National St Johns Ambulance PNG, where his passion was helping others.
"I enjoy helping others. I help people through my work and everyday life," he said.
His desire to help others remains strong despite his own circumstances.
"To help as many people as I can in whatever ways I can, big or small," Kivali said.
Now, he is asking the public to help him continue his treatment.
He remains hopeful, saying the Chemotherapy may take time before visible changes occur.
"I am hopeful and positive that it is working. God is in control," he said.
Kivali said he tried to focus on the positive side of life and viewed his illness as a temporary phase.
"I feel this is just phase of this beautiful life that God has gave me since birth and it will pass," he said.
Kivali holds tightly to the belief that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
His biggest hope is to walk again, and return to the life he had before his diagnosis.
If he recovers, the first thing Kivali wants to do is, spend a Sabbath with his family singing group.
"I pray that I will be discharged from this ward on a Friday," he said.
"I am also learning to walk again after my legs got crippled.
"So the first Saturday, I would like to walk to church with my family and sing praises to God."
Kivali is appealing to people who have seen his fundraising flyer through 'Help for Cares and 'Cancer Patients PNG' to consider supporting his treatment.
"To everyone, who saw my flyer, I am humbled and I would like to say 'thank you' from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has donated, and is considering to help donate," he said.
"Your help will go a long way."
