Instituto Viva o Despertar launches campaign for breast cancer support

The Instituto Viva o Despertar (IVD) has launched the ‘Amigos do Coração’ program to solicit donations to sustain its free services for women undergoing breast cancer treatment via the Unified Health System (SUS).

Founded by Lorena Lacerda, the non-profit organization provides holistic support, including physiotherapy, psychotherapy, nutrition, pilates, hydrogymnastics, yoga, and meditation. The institute aims to offer guidance, information, and emotional support to women, referred to as ‘girassóis,’ to help them navigate the challenges of treatment.

Currently, the IVD has 42 women under continuous monitoring and utilizes 27 active volunteers across various health and social service sectors. The organization reported nearly 3,000 free services provided to date, with over 600 conducted between January and June 2026.