The social project of the Augustinian Recollects in Fortaleza has organized, in partnership with the Aesthetics and Cosmetics Course at UNINASSAU College, a day of comprehensive care, appreciation and self-care with its beneficiaries.
The Saint Augustine Psychosocial Care Center (CAPSA), located in Jangurussu, in Fortaleza (Ceará, Brazil) organized a special meeting for 70 beneficiaries on the occasion of the Pink October Campaign, promoted by the Ministry of Health of the Government of Brazil and which ensures the prevention of breast cancer and cervical cancer.
A total of 70 women supported by CAPSA participated in this moment of comprehensive care, promoting physical, emotional and social well-being for these women who face great daily challenges with courage and resilience.
In partnership with the Aesthetics and Cosmetics Course at UNINASSAU College, the 70 women received haircuts and hair treatments, nail and eyebrow care, skin cleansing, relaxing massages, health advice, food and feminine gifts; care that is rare in their daily lives, but which represent gestures of self-esteem and personal value.
CAPSA is a fundamental pillar for the construction of this disadvantaged community, with psychosocial care, personal support and community reconstruction. The lives of these families are marked by difficulties such as violence, poverty, exclusion and loneliness when it comes to managing their families.
CAPSA, as a source of ongoing support, offers, through its professionals, social workers and psychologists, guidance, support and activities that lead to a dignified future. It is a refuge where they can rediscover their own strength and renew their self-esteem. In addition to the individual, these actions reverberate in the community, helping to break cycles of vulnerability and exclusion.
The collaboration with UNINASSAU College has made this different initiative possible. By combining resources, knowledge and goodwill, it is possible to provide both a moment of peace and joy for the beneficiaries and a learning space for the students.
This also strengthens community ties and the common work to build a better society, providing students with access to stories of women’s overcoming and struggle in constructive and interesting dialogues during the application of the procedures.
Each gesture, each aesthetic care and each smile provided speaks of the transformative power of working together; and by focusing on health and the prevention of diseases such as cancer, women learn to protect their lives from greater problems. Each woman served has felt special, valued and, above all, loved.
Each year, breast cancer in Brazil has more than 73,000 new cases. To prevent it, a healthy diet and physical activity are important; and the most important thing is self-exploration, so that women pay attention to their breasts and consult their doctors immediately about any possible changes in shape, size and sensations. Routine mammograms are recommended for women aged 50 to 69.
Regarding cervical cancer, more than 17,000 new cases appear in Brazil each year. In this case, prevention is done with the HPV vaccine administered to girls and boys aged 9 to 14. Preventive exams are recommended for women aged 25 to 64, every 3 years.
