Papua New Guinea
April 23, 2026

Remember Haggai? Look at her now

Haggai came into ROMAC’s care after being born with a rare facial condition that significantly affected her appearance and required urgent specialist surgery in Australia.

Her journey began with uncertainty and concern but also with hope — hope that she would be given the chance to grow, develop and live a healthier life.

Today that hope has been beautifully realised.

A recent photo of Haggai shows a bright thriving little girl who has made an extraordinary recovery following her surgery. Her transformation is not only physical but also a reflection of the care, courage and support that have surrounded her every step of the way.

Haggai’s progress is a powerful reminder of what is possible when medical expertise, compassion, and generosity come together. She was born with an encephalocele, a birth defect where brain tissue grows through an opening in a newborn’s skull. 

Behind her smile is a journey that has involved dedicated surgeons, nursing staff, host families, Rotarian volunteers, and supporters across the ROMAC family who made her treatment possible.

Read an earlier Patient Story and watch a compelling video about her treatment.

For those who remember her early journey, seeing Haggai today is nothing short of remarkable. She continues to grow stronger enjoying life as a child should — with curiosity, energy and joy.

Her story stands as a testament to the life-changing impact of ROMAC: transforming futures and giving children from our neighbouring Pacific Island countries the chance to live full and healthy lives.

Haggai’s journey is one of many that reflect the life-changing work made possible through ROMAC.

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Treatment in cases like this can cost more than $100,000

Any donation you can make will help make treatment like this possible.