VIDEO: Meeting Between Hospitalized Girl and Therapy Horse Moves People in Hospital in Interior of SP
A heartwarming meeting between an 11-year-old girl and a therapy horse at a hospital in São Paulo has gone viral, showcasing the emotional connection and positive impact on the young patient.
In a touching scene that has captured the attention of many online, an 11-year-old girl named Ingrid Victória, who has been hospitalized for a month in Mogi Mirim, São Paulo, formed a strong bond with a therapy horse named Tutu. The moment was shared in a viral video, showing Ingrid resting her head against Tutu, a display of affection that illuminated the girl's face with joy. Her mother, Camila Roberta Coelho da Silva, noted that Ingrid has always had a deep love for animals, and the visit from Tutu brought a much-needed lift to her spirits during this challenging time.
The introduction of Tutu was part of an animal therapy project at the Hospital 22 de Outubro, aiming to provide emotional support to young patients. Ingrid's mother shared that the visit made a significant difference in her daughter's mood, transforming her from a state of boredom and quietness to a bright smile and excited demeanor upon seeing the horse. This interaction exemplifies the profound impact that therapy animals can have on patients’ emotional and psychological well-being.
Ingrid is currently facing her second hospitalization in 2026; she was admitted again on February 12 and does not have a defined discharge date. According to her mother, the therapy program and visits like that of Tutu play an essential role in improving Ingrid's overall outlook during her prolonged treatment, highlighting the importance of therapeutic approaches in medical care for children.