How do you run a health campaign across 13 countries with different languages, foods, cultures and health challenges?
A recent Zoom presentation by Pamela Townend, Campaign Co-ordinator for The 10,000 Toes Campaign, focused on this topic. Dr Melanie Renfrew invited her to speak to Lifestyle Medicine students at Avondale University.
Dr Renfrew called her “Powerhouse Pam” – and it fits. Pamela shared what it’s like to bring health education and diabetes care to countries across the South Pacific. She explained the importance of respecting local culture and how our Ambassadors play a key role.
“Every island nation has its own cultural aspects, which make our work both challenging and rewarding. We couldn’t do it without the dedication and support of our local Ambassadors who know their communities best and work closely alongside them,” said Pamela.
Local Challenges
From small islands to larger nations, every place is different. The 10,000 Toes Campaign adapts our programs to fit each one:
- In Papua New Guinea, less than 5% of people in the Highlands have read English.
- In New Caledonia and French Polynesia, people speak French, so materials need to be translated.
- In some coral island nations, the soil is poor, so many have never seen common fruits or vegetables.
- In Fiji, fresh vegetables are grown, but many people still choose soft drinks, white rice and noodles due to Western influence.
- Getting screening kits and flipcharts to remote islands can be hard. Some can only be reached by boat or plane.
- Fresh food is also often expensive or limited.
One Family’s Story
Pamela shared the story of a woman in Papua New Guinea whose father had diabetes for 14 years. For the first six, he didn’t even know he had it. His health worsened, and he eventually needed a leg amputation.
Sadly, someone in the Pacific loses a leg to diabetes every 20 minutes.
This is just one story, but many others face the same devastating fate. Our mission is to provide them with better care, support, and information.
Stories of Hope and Healing
Watch our short video series called Stories of Hope and Healing so you can hear directly from Pamela, and discover how we’re changing lives through health education, early detection, and local support.
Or watch the episodes below.
From Blindness to Joy
Medical Mission: Eyes and Smiles Restored
Mega Health Clinic: Papua New Guinea
Empowering Ambassadors
Cultural Challenges
