The grassroots movement established in southern Tenerife to demand equitable healthcare and access to palliative care for patients in the region, without the need to travel to Ofra Hospital in Santa Cruz, has recently launched the #NoSomosDeSegunda (We Are Not Second Rate) initiative on social media platforms, encouraging citizens to participate.
Vanesa Díaz, a key figure in the local community, conveyed to the press, “This initiative involves individuals writing the hashtag #NoSomosDeSegunda on a piece of paper, capturing a photo or video with the paper visible or verbally expressing the phrase and sharing it across their social networks.”
Through this movement, the group aims to garner further backing for their cause, advocating for “palliative care services to be accessible to the ill and their families, whether at home or in nearby hospitals,” shared Díaz, expressing gratitude for the rapid support gained across social media platforms within just four days. Moreover, she announced the upcoming participation of “influential figures.”
Meanwhile, the platform continues to engage with relevant authorities. Following discussions with the local council representative, the Health Minister, the Pro Hospital Público del Sur Platform, and the Mayor of Arona, future meetings are scheduled with various municipal figures, including the Mayor of Adeje, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, with a confirmed date to be announced shortly.
Additionally, Vanesa Díaz is set to attend the Second Conference on Palliative Care Education on April 5 in Madrid, organized by the Spanish Society of Palliative Care (Secpal). During this conference, the Cabo Blanco resident will highlight the struggles faced by families with terminally ill loved ones in the southern region, emphasizing the importance of ensuring consistent and thorough training in palliative care for future healthcare professionals.
