South American Division

Hair Donation Project in Brazil Honors Mothers with Cancer

In partnership with the Support Group for People with Cancer, the IBES Adventist College promoted a day of love and empathy for mothers.

Brazil
Gabriela Porto, with ANN Staff
A student at Colégio Adventista in Vila Velha holds a freshly cut lock of hair for a hair donation.

A student at Colégio Adventista in Vila Velha holds a freshly cut lock of hair for a hair donation.

[Photo: ASES Media Center]

The IBES Adventist College organized a special event for Mother's Day in Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brazil. The event included students, employees, and the local community in an awareness campaign. It took place in a public square where a structure was set up for hair cutting and donation collection. The donated hair will be used to make wigs for mothers and women supported by the Support Group for People with Cancer (GAPC).

The campaign focused on promoting hair donation, in addition to the contribution of other essential items such as scarves and personal hygiene products. Participants were treated with care and attention, receiving blood pressure measurement services to ensure their well-being, and a small snack to make the action more welcoming and comfortable.

During the hair donation action, health services were also offered
During the hair donation action, health services were also offered

Partnership and Solidarity

This initiative resulted from a collaboration between the IBES Adventist College, the Dondocas beauty salon, the Southern Hospital Network and the GAPC.

The director of the school unit, Marina Faria, expressed her gratitude for the participation and support of everyone involved. "This campaign not only honors mothers, but offers hope and support to women facing the challenge of cancer. We are humbled by the spirit of solidarity demonstrated by our school and local community," she highlighted.

Donors received a certificate during the action
Donors received a certificate during the action

Action for all Ages

Valentina Ribas, a kindergarten student, shared her experience: "It was really cool, it's the first time I've participated in an action like this. Donating 10 cm of my hair was a small gesture compared to the affection I would like to give. It was worth it. I know I'm going to leave someone smiling", she said enthusiastically.

Friendship Bonds

Ana Beatriz, nutritionist at Hospital Meridional, shared in an interview the special meaning behind her gesture: "Recently, one of my best friends discovered that she has cancer. The news was a shock for everyone. I'm by her side, hoping that recover as quickly as possible, but I know it's a process. Donating my hair is a way of showing my love and support, showing that I'm here for whatever you need," she revealed emotionally.

Space was set up in a public square to receive donors
Space was set up in a public square to receive donors

More than 90 strands of hair were donated. All this material was destined for GAPC, which will make wigs and forward donations to more than 100 women assisted by the non-governmental organization.

The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese website.

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