The family thus experienced one of the most special moments of the Materno Infantil’s traditional celebration, which every year brings the Fiestas del Pilar to children who have to remain in hospital. Cabezudos, footballers, basketball players, F-18 pilots, soldiers and firefighters toured the facilities to spend time with the young patients and make a few days that are not always easy more bearable.
Luciano did not hesitate to show off the gift he had just received. "A book to learn about firefighting," he explained, while confirming that they had also left him a cachirulo to celebrate the festivities. His mother, Isamar, was especially grateful for the professionals’ gesture, which managed to break the hospital routine for a few moments. "It was unexpected and very pleasant. At such a difficult time, it is lovely that they bring the children something so entertaining," she said.
The joy was also evident in Breishka, another young patient who was able to enjoy the day. She has been in hospital for two days and hopes to return home soon. "Maybe they’ll discharge me today or tomorrow," she said with a smile. The girl viewed the celebration and the care she had received during her stay positively. "They have treated me very well," she said.
"THE CHILDREN ARE THE HEROES HERE"
Behind each visit are also professionals who have been taking part in the initiative for years. One of them is Commander Juan Silva Blázquez, of Wing 31 at Zaragoza Air Base, who highlighted the importance of offering the children a moment of entertainment while they remain in hospital. "It is an honor that they continue to count on us year after year. We have been taking part practically since these events began," he explained.
The soldiers arrived carrying helmets, vests, patches and other materials so that the children could learn more about their work up close. According to Silva Blázquez, the aim is for the visit to become a game and allow them to forget their situation for a while. "Hospital days are very long, and it is appreciated to change the routine a little," he acknowledged.
Although many children see soldiers and firefighters as genuine heroes, the commander is clear about who truly deserves that recognition. "The children are the heroes here, that is crystal clear. To endure what they endure at such a young age... They are very strong, infinitely stronger than adults. They are true heroes," he said.
That is a view shared by Víctor Granado, an emergency medical technician with the Zaragoza Fire Department, who also took part in the celebration. The firefighters brought cachirulos, storybooks, comics and some sweets, as well as allowing the children to try on their helmets. "Being able to bring a little joy and excitement to children who are going through a difficult time, and being able to make them smile, is one of the best gifts you can give," he said.
A VISIT THAT ALSO MOVES THE ATHLETES
Among those who also did not want to miss the event was Javier Justiz Ferrer, a former Casademont Zaragoza player who remains connected to the club as an ambassador. For him, taking part in these activities has a special meaning, both because of the excitement they generate among the children and because of his own family experience. "I come from a country where this kind of work is not done; it is very costly for families," the former basketball player said.
Justiz explained that he intends to continue helping for many years. "Coming here and making the children smile is very satisfying for me," he said. His height also tends to spark the children’s curiosity, which he uses as an opportunity to joke and talk with them during the visits.
The former player put himself in the patients’ shoes and recalled how happy he would have been to receive a similar visit during his childhood. "I was a child too, and I would have liked it if, on the day I had to be admitted to hospital, a player, the firefighters or the UME had come," he said.
