A Day with Me at Liga Feminina de Lajeado: Cookies, Care & Creative Recycling

Last weekend, I spent a day volunteering with the group of Liga Feminina de Combate ao Câncer de Lajeado, a local women’s volunteer organization that supports cancer patients — especially those battling breast cancer — in my hometown in Brazil. It was one of those days that left my heart full — and reminded me how small gestures can make a big difference

Baking with Purpose

I started the morning at home, baking homemade cookies to bring to the hospital. To make the gesture even more special, we also printed out the cookie recipes for anyone interested in trying them at home. Along with the cookies, we handed out little notes with uplifting messages — small reminders of hope and care. The idea was simple but beautiful: to share a bit of sweetness and comfort with people going through cancer treatment.

Sharing Cookies and Smiles

Later, I joined the group of Liga Feminina de Lajeado to visit Hospital Bruno Born, where we handed out the cookies to cancer patients. It was actually my first time being in direct contact with people undergoing cancer treatment, and it touched me deeply.

We visited the chemotherapy rooms and the radiotherapy room, meeting patients right in the middle of their treatments. Some were tired, some were quietly hopeful, and others were eager to talk for a while. What moved me most was realizing how real and personal it all was: behind each patient was a unique story, a family, and so much strength and vulnerability at the same time.

It reminded me that sometimes a smile, a few kind words, or even a simple cookie can offer more comfort than we imagine — becoming a bridge to say, “You’re not alone. We see you. And we care.”

Making Breast Prosthetics

In the afternoon, I went to the home of another volunteer, where she taught me how to make breast prosthetics using recycled plastic. These soft prosthetics are made especially for women who have undergone mastectomies, so they can wear them inside their bras and feel more comfortable and confident. It was deeply touching to help create something that can bring dignity, hope, and a sense of normalcy back to someone’s life — and it showed me how sustainability and solidarity often go hand in hand.

Reflections

At the end of the day, I felt grateful. Grateful to be part of something bigger, to meet inspiring women, and to see that caring for each other and caring for the planet can happen at the same time.

Because sometimes, a simple gesture — like a smile and a cookie — can mean so much more than we realize.