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Her name is Susana Machaqueiro Silva and she's 66 years old.

Trained as a nursery school teacher, she worked in that area for 41 years and retired in 2015. Her retirement allowed her to take up new duties, embracing causes that benefitted from her experience as a nursery school teacher.

For the past two years, she has been a volunteer at the Paediatric Outpatient Clinic of the Santa Maria Hospital.

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Why did you choose Paediatrics to work as a volunteer?

Susana Silva: I was invited by Rosário Botelho, a nursery school teacher who has been a friend of mine since her internship at our Kindergarten, and that's why I chose Paediatrics.

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What are your routines as a volunteer?

Susana Silva: I work every Wednesday, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.. Nursery school teachers play a very important role here and I work closely with their team. There are two waiting rooms and, usually, I stay with the youngest children. I play with them, I stimulate them as much as I can, and I "tease" the kids and their parents, always trying to create new interactions and distractions, so waiting time can be less burdensome. I also talk to the parents, who sometimes need support and encouragement. Creating a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere is crucial.

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Do you have a touching episode you'd like to mention?

Susana Silva: I'd say that all children are touching, some for their problems and courage, others for their affection and friendliness.

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If someone wants to become a volunteer, what should they do?

Susana Silva: To become a volunteer they should contact the Association of Friends of the HSM, attend an interview and a training course.

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For more information:
E-mail: amigossantamaria96@gmail.com
Tel/Fax: 21 7805630 Tel: 21 780 53 20