Every year, the Verona Fire Brigade brings joy and excitement to the young patients at the Ospedale della Donna e del Bambino in Borgo Trento (mayor hospital of the city). This cherished tradition sees off-duty firefighters dedicating their time to uplift the spirits of children undergoing treatment in various pediatric departments.
During these special visits, approximately 45 firefighters engage in dynamic demonstrations and training exercises outside the hospital, captivating the attention of around 80 children and their families. From the safety of their wards, the young patients watch in awe as firefighters perform simulated rescues and maneuvers, providing a delightful distraction from their daily routines.
For children in isolation, the firefighters extend their compassion by using aerial ladders to reach the windows of their rooms, offering personalized greetings and well-wishes. This thoughtful gesture ensures that every child feels included in the day’s festivities.
Following the outdoor activities, a select group of firefighters visits the wards to distribute gifts and essential items, all funded through donations from fire personnel and the local Firefighters’ Association. These tokens not only bring smiles to the children’s faces but also support the medical staff in providing care and therapy.
The initiative is warmly received by hospital staff, including esteemed professionals such as Professor Giorgio Piacentini of Pediatrics C, Professor Claudio Maffeis of Pediatrics B, and Dr. Simone Cesaro of Pediatric Oncohematology. They acknowledge the positive impact these visits have on the young patients, offering them a much-needed respite and a sense of normalcy during their hospital stay.
Rodolfo Ridolfi, a representative of the Verona Fire Brigade, emphasizes the mutual benefits of the tradition: “For years, we have come here to bring joy to the young patients. It’s now a tradition for our department. We know it’s important for the children, but it’s also significant for us. The number of firefighters volunteering, even on their days off, is always increasing. Bringing some distraction to the patients gives us great satisfaction and energy“.
This heartwarming initiative not only strengthens the bond between the Verona Fire Brigade and the local community but also exemplifies the compassion and dedication of the firefighters. For tourists visiting Verona, this tradition highlights the city’s commitment to caring for its residents, making it a place of both historical beauty and heartfelt humanity.
