Finding Courage in Care: Leah’s Journey to Women’s Health

In Vatukalau, Aruligo, Leah is known as a hardworking mother and community member. Her days are full, tending to her family’s small canteen, gardening, caring for the household, and making sure her children are well.  

This story highlights how bringing essential women’s health services closer to remote communities can help mothers like Leah make informed decisions — not only for their own wellbeing, but for the future of their families.  

When distance and fear become barriers 

For many women in Leah’s community, getting to the nearest health facility is not easy. The journey is long, transportation is difficult, and mothers often cannot leave their children behind. Leah shared that being able to access services close to home matters because travel to a clinic is hard, and the nearest facility can be far.  

But distance was only one part of the challenge. 

Leah had also been carrying a fear for a long time — the fear of taking the VIA checkup, a screening test that helps detect early signs of cervical cancer. She admitted she avoided it because of what she had heard from friends in the community.  

“I feared to do the VIA because of some things my friends said. I was afraid to do the check-up in case I have the virus,” Leah explained.  

That fear was powerful enough to keep her from getting screened — even though she knew women’s health issues can affect the whole family. 

A clinic arrives in the community 

Leah’s turning point came when a satellite clinic supported through the WHO - KOICA funded Maternal and Child Health program was brought directly into her community. Leah attended voluntarily and described how relieved she felt that the service came closer to home — meaning she didn’t have to take the difficult trip to a distant clinic or struggle with transport while managing children and family responsibilities.  

During the clinic, nurses facilitated an awareness session explaining what the VIA screening is, why it is important, and how early detection can prevent disease. Leah said this information helped her move from fear to understanding.  

“It is a very good thing to get checked so that we know whether we have the virus or not — to help us prevent having the disease,” she said.  

What changed for Leah 

Leah’s story is not only about access, it is about confidence. 

Before, she avoided screening due to fear and misinformation shared among peers. 
Now, she understands the purpose of screening and is willing to take the VIA checkup because she sees it as prevention and protection.  

Leah also shared how meaningful it is that health services are being taken to communities like hers, where travel is hard and mothers cannot easily leave home. The program’s approach reduces barriers that often keep women from seeking care early.  

Why Leah’s story matters 

Leah’s experience reflects what many women face: when services are far and information is unclear, fear grows. But when services are accessible and health messages are explained in a respectful and supportive way, women gain the confidence to act. 

Her message is simple, but powerful: 

“Prevention is better than cure.”  

For Leah, the satellite clinic didn’t just bring a checkup — it brought knowledge, reassurance, and the courage to take a step toward protecting her health and her family’s future