The "Breathless" project was implemented in Aracati, a city in the state of Ceará, Brazil, by the Daughters of Charity of the Province of Fortaleza. Led by Sr Patrícia da Silva Gomes, its objective was clear: to create a care facility entirely dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory problems in children at the Sainte-Louise-de-Marillac Hospital.

The region sorely lacks specialised equipment to treat these conditions, which particularly affect children from poor families.

As soon as the funds were received, the medical team and the sisters immediately made the necessary purchases. Among the equipment purchased were:

- State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment: oximeters (neonatal, paediatric, adult), stethoscopes, digital thermometers.

- essential treatment equipment: nebulisers, aspirators, laser therapy devices, PEP valves, Aerobika, Powerbreathe (for respiratory rehabilitation), and even a ‘mini bike’ for physiotherapy, a hospital table, storage cabinets, adapted furniture (chairs, tables), high-quality LED lighting, medicines (such as azithromycin), bandages, gloves, masks, hygiene products

- and to create a welcoming environment: decorative items (soft toys, pictures, lampshades, etc.).

The most significant impact can be seen in the testimonials from families:

- M.L.O.S. says: ‘My son has suffered from asthma for a long time. Today, he has received excellent care and his condition is improving day by day. Thank you.’

- A.M.G. adds: ‘The care environment is wonderful and facilitates treatment. My daughter is breathing better and better. Thank you to the sisters and professionals who care for her with love.’

"Your generosity has given our hospital a new lease of life!
Thanks to you, we can now provide vital respiratory care to more than 600 children every month.
Thank you for standing by us to transform their lives. Your support makes all the difference." Sr Patricia da Silva Gomes