When I was at Lourdes, one of the many roles I took on was serving as a Scout in the stretcher-bearers' group. It was an experience that opened my eyes to a world of care and support for wheelchair users and those on stretchers.
The journey to Lourdes itself was deeply satisfying. I helped a fellow stretcher-bearer deliver lunch and dinner throughout all the train cars, running back and forth to the food car to pick up fresh supplies and keep the service going.
«Hospital service taught me that the most important thing in the world is helping others who need us».
«Hospital service taught me that the most important thing in the world is helping others who need us».When we arrived at the station, we unloaded both the wheelchair users and those on stretchers.
Once we reached the hospital assigned to us, we settled all the other young people while we stayed at the hotel.
Hospital service was a wonderful thing for me because I understood that the most important thing in the world is helping others who need us. I was deeply grateful to have gone to Lourdes, especially to bring wheelchair users to hear Mass in the underground Basilica of Saint Pius X, and to join the Way of the Cross and the candlelight procession.
Back at the hospital, we kept the young people entertained with games led by the women volunteers and stretcher-bearers. We listened to music and danced together.
That experience was the most meaningful of all. It showed me the importance of helping those who need it most. I lived it fully; it was truly valuable to me. Above all, I learned what it means to serve others with all the care and affection they deserve.
- Daniele Cogliandro, 2001
