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Santa Claus pays Christmas visit to patients at the Barata Ribeiro Municipal Hospital in Mangueira
Published on 17/12/2024 - 15:57 | Updated
The action was organized in partnership by volunteers and hospital staff. Credit: Maria Júlia Goulart / SMS-Rio Not even the typical heat of Rio de Janeiro could stop Santa Claus from fulfilling his mission this Tuesday (17/12). The Barata Ribeiro Municipal Hospital, in Mangueira, was the stage for a special visit that brightened the day of hospitalized patients. Santa Claus, wearing a red hat and a bag full of presents, made sure to bring not only special memories, but also hugs and kind words, spreading the true spirit of Christmas throughout the hospital corridors.
The event, organized in partnership with volunteers and hospital staff, was a moment of welcome and hope for those facing health challenges. For the director of clinical and geriatrics, Vanessa Vieira, the event transforms the hospital environment and makes hospitalization a little lighter and more humanized.
– It is essential to raise awareness among patients and their families at a time of such great fragility. When we can bring a little joy, such as with the presence of Santa Claus, people feel more welcomed and less alone. This figure has a special meaning for many, as he brings dreams, hope and the idea that there is always something worth fighting for -, said Vanessa.
Santa Claus made sure to bring words of comfort, warm hugs and messages of hope to the patients, who were moved by the visit. Maria Aparecida, 59, was surprised and moved by the visit.
– For me, it was a very special experience, I am very happy. The role of Santa Claus is very beautiful. As a caregiver for the elderly, I know how much a conversation can make a difference: the elderly feel welcomed, valued and happy when they receive attention and affection -, commented the patient.
The event, organized in partnership with volunteers and hospital staff, distributed hygiene kits to patients and spread smiles throughout the unit. For Sandra Oliveira, 64, this moment was a breath of fresh air.
– I wanted to go home so much that for a moment I even forgot about Christmas. But when Santa Claus arrived, he brought all the joy and magic of Christmas -, says the elderly woman.
At the end of the visit, the hospital corridors echoed the certainty that small gestures can bring comfort and hope, showing that the Christmas spirit is capable of brightening even the most difficult moments.
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