Paediatric oncohematological diseases represent a complex challenge, not only for the affected young patients but also for their families, who suddenly find themselves facing a long and difficult journey. Treatment requires long periods of hospitalisation and continuous medical checks, often far from home: the phenomenon of health migration is particularly significant in the case of cancer patients: About 27% are forced to pay for accommodation away from their home. In the case of children, the proximity of parents and family members is essential for their psychological and physical well-being, but the distance from home and the lack of adequate reception facilities often further aggravate the burden of illness. It is in this scenario that the activity of A.S.E.O.P. - Association Support Hematology Oncology Pediatric, was founded in Modena in 1988 to offer concrete support to families of children and young people suffering from oncohematological diseases under treatment at the University Hospital of Modena, providing emotional and practical support to them both during and after their stay in the hospital. One of the most significant projects carried out by the association was the construction, in 2016, of Casa di Fausta 1, a structure consisting of 12 independent living units designed to accommodate free of charge the small cancer patients of the Policlinico di Modena from all over Italy, and their families, guaranteeing them a welcoming and safe environment, where you can feel at home during the long and difficult period of care. The experience accumulated with Casa di Fausta 1 and the growing demand for hospitality from not only national territory, but also from abroad, has convinced A.S.E.O.P. to undertake a new initiative, which we have decided to support: the construction of Casa di Fausta 2. This project involves the transformation of Villa Corletto, a large property specially acquired by the Association, located on the outskirts of Modena, in a new structure able to respond to the requests of reception more and more numerous and pressing, coming not only from Pediatric Oncology, but also from other departments of the Polyclinic, such as the Oncology Center and Transplant Surgery. After an important renovation, the complex of Villa Corletto, composed of three buildings, the Villa, the house of the caretaker and the stables, will accommodate inside 18 studios with kitchenette and bathroom (36 p.l.), collective services (kitchen, laundry,...) and areas for the families of patients. There will also be multi-purpose spaces for social uses, such as ceremonies, conferences, meetings and exhibitions, the proceeds of which will have the sole purpose of supporting the hospitality project. The added value of this last part of the project is that in the management of these activities will be involved not only volunteers but also former patients, who after the experience of the disease can find a new dimension of life and a possible employment opportunity. The project of Casa di Fausta 2 represents a fundamental step in the path of assistance and support offered by A.S.E.O.P. to children and young people suffering from oncology and oncohematology diseases and their families. Thanks to this new structure, it will be possible to offer an even wider and more adequate reception, meeting the needs of those who come from other regions of Italy or abroad, while ensuring an environment that promotes psychological and physical recovery. The strength of A.S.E.O.P. lies in its deep connection with the territory and the community, in the dedication of the volunteers and in the ability to transform difficulties into opportunities. Projects like Casa di Fausta 2 not only improve the quality of life for the families involved but are a concrete example of how solidarity and volunteering can make a difference in the lives of those who face such a hard battle. Details Location: Modena Association: A.S.E.O.P. Odv Beneficiaries: 70 children per year and their families Contribution: 130,000 euros Period: March 2024 - March 2025
