Nineteen heart surgeries have been completed on children in Fiji by a medical team from New Zealand.

Mothers with children who recently had open heart surgery. Dr John Wright Adam Dennison (H4K Reg) Khizer (Lautoka Hospital Reg) Kirsten Finucane (surgeon) Dr Losalini Leweniqila (Paed Reg. Lautoka) Lee Barton (H4K Nurse). Mark (Perfusionist) Kirsten (surgeon) Brian (anaesthetist) Helen (Surg Assist) Becky (Theatre Nurse). Happy Mum with twins Jekope and Akuila Kurimate and Lee Barton.

Patients considered high priority came from all over Fiji to Lautoka Hospital on Viti Levu for treatment by the volunteer team.

A pediatric registrar Losalini Ravulo Leweniqila said one patient would have to fly to New Zealand with the medical team, to have their operation.

Dr Leweniqila said for all the children and their families the team has had a life changing impact through its work and commitment.

"Our families are very happy and they feel the warm welcome that the team show in all the small gestures that the team give them. The nurses are very friendly to them and they are very accommodating and they all feel at home," said Losalini Ravulo Leweniqila.