"Little Chefs" make the Strawberry of Love at the Children's Oncology Hospital
The internet's favorite recipe was a hit among the students of the Hospital Class, in a moment of joy, lightness, and learning
In celebration of Student Day, the Octávio Lobo Children's Oncology Hospital (Hoiol) held a special edition of the "Little Chefs" project, from the Patient Experience Office (EEP), aimed at the students of the Hospital Class Professor Roberto França. The activity taught how to make the "Strawberry of Love," a sweet that has become a trend on social media and delighted the taste buds of children and teenagers undergoing treatment at the hospital unit.
With simple ingredients, the "Little Chefs" project reinforces the Hospital's commitment to promoting initiatives that humanize treatment, giving voice and protagonism to patients, even in delicate moments. For them, it is not just about teaching a recipe, but about creating a moment of joy, lightness, and learning. "I loved making it, and the part of eating the strawberry was even better because it was very tasty!" said Walace Santos, 7 years old, while savoring the treat.
The project relies on the help of volunteers who dedicate time and talent to make each workshop an enriching experience and provide support to patients during preparation, ensuring that everyone feels valued and motivated. The choice of the "Strawberry of Love" could not have been more appropriate. Besides being a trend, "the sweet symbolizes affection and sweetness, essential feelings for a lighter and more welcoming hospital environment," according to the words of the volunteer and chef from the confectionery "Delícias da Nega."
The collaboration strengthens the spirit of community and makes all the difference in the recovery process and the emotional well-being of patients. Under the attentive and caring gaze of the volunteer, the students and their respective guardians got their hands dirty, learning to prepare the sweet that unites flavor and affection in every detail. Chocolate, sugar, the fruit, and a secret ingredient: vinegar, to help give crunchiness and beauty.
"By handling ingredients, exploring different flavors and textures, they learn to identify sensations, develop motor coordination, and increase their self-confidence. For children in a hospital environment, these activities promote a moment of normalcy and pleasure, contributing to improved mood and strengthening self-esteem, fundamental aspects for the success of treatment," stated Elizabeth Cabeça, a member of the EEP.
Service - Accredited as a High Complexity Unit in Oncology, the Octávio Lobo Children's Oncology Hospital is a reference in the Northern region for the diagnosis and specialized treatment of childhood and adolescent cancer, for ages 0 to 19 years. The unit is managed by the Instituto Diretrizes (ID), under a management contract with the State Department of Public Health, and serves patients from 144 municipalities in Pará and neighboring states.
Text: Leila Cruz- Ascom Hoiol
