Former BBBs Thelma, Amanda and Marcela are already working in a hospital in RS

Big Brother Brasil’s champion doctors traveled to Rio Grande do Sul to help overloaded hospitals

Doctor Amanda Meirelles, champion of “BBB 23”, together with former program participants Thelma Assis, winner of “BBB 20”, and Marcela Mc Gowan, decided to volunteer to help the victims of the recent floods in Rio Grande do Sul And they have already been seen in action in an operating room at the Nossa Senhora das Graças hospital, in Canoas, one of the cities most affected by the storms.

Amanda also used her social networks to alert the population of Rio Grande do Sul about the risk of leptospirosis, highlighting the importance of chemoprophylaxis for those exposed to contaminated water. “Passing by to remind you that chemoprophylaxis, with medical evaluation, against leptospirosis is recommended for people who have been exposed to flood water for a prolonged period and for rescue teams and volunteers with prolonged exposure to flood water!”, he warned.

Impact of floods on local health

In a live appearance on the “Encontro” program, this Wednesday (8/5), Thelma detailed the alarming situation in Canoas. She described how healthcare professionals in the region are facing grueling hours, often unable to leave hospitals. “The work here is to help the healthcare professionals here, who are overworked. Many are unable to travel to leave the hospital and end up doubling their journey. Others take three, four hours on journeys that previously took 20 minutes”, shared.

She also commented on the severe losses of health infrastructure in Canoas, including the destruction of basic health units and a hospital that had recently acquired an expensive tomography machine. All of this makes it even more difficult to care for victims.

Actions and appeals for donations

The former BBB reiterated the urgency of psychological support for both victims and health workers, predicting a long period of recovery after the waters receded. “And then, of course, the psychological support of these people, of health professionals, will be extremely important. When this water recedes, what will be found, how long will it take to be rebuilt… And that’s why, Patrícia, that we are living here, so that we can help in the best way possible. And we also continue asking for donations of water, medicine, food, all hospitals are receiving donations”, concluded Thelminha.

Macela McGowan, in turn, provided assistance to a climate refugee shelter and highlighted the importance of donating everything from insulin to clothes.

The three former BBBs on medical duty also campaigned to donate to the Canoas hospital, where they are concentrating care for the local population. They also extended invitations to other doctors in the country to follow their example and volunteer.