Local Tipperary community service centre welcomes Brazilian visitors

Templemore Community Services welcomed Dr. Adelaide Portela, together with her sister Antonia and her sister-in-law Marlene, to the centre.

Dr Portela is a leading oncologist from Manaus, Brazil.

Her current project includes helping people in remote Amazonian tribes to avail of cancer treatment.

The Portelas were delighted to see first hand the work being undertaken in the Day Care Centre and to experience its legendary food, welcome and hospitality.

They were very thankful to Clara, Fiona, Mary and the excellent team for their warm welcome.

The commencement of Dr Portela's treatment can involve river journeys for patients of very limited means, over a period of 18 days from the remote areas where they live, to arrive in Manaus to start their treatment.

The challenge is to find a place where the patient and their companion can stay during these difficult months so far from home.

It is for this reason Dr. Portela has started a project in Manaus called “ Maria’s house,” which currently provides accommodation for over 100 people.

The Portelas enjoyed their time in Templemore and in particular meeting with the local people.

They visited the Sacred Heart Church, the Cottage in Loughmore, the local cafés, and strolled around the town park.