HV Foundation | ABEO opens four new accommodations for young cancer patients

Verona – This morning, Saturday November 23rd, at Villa Fantelli, ABEO inaugurated "Casa Elena", a new housing complex designed to host young patients from the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department of Borgo Trento Hospital and their families.

Hellas Verona FC, through its Foundation, has supported this significant project from the outset. Launched on February 1, 2023, the initiative was backed by various activities promoted by the Club. Attending the inauguration were Hellas Verona FC President Maurizio Setti and General Director Simona Gioè, along with Hellas Verona Foundation President Elena Setti and board member Antonella Benedetti.

Also present at the event were numerous volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who invest in ABEO’s mission daily, alongside institutional representatives such as Hon. Lorenzo Fontana, President of the Chamber of Deputies, Elisa De Berti, Vice President of the Veneto Region, and Damiano Tommasi, Mayor of Verona. Additional participants included Alberto Bagnani, President of ABEO, Callisto Bravi, General Director of Verona’s Integrated Hospital Company, Giovanni De Manzoni, representative of the Rector of the University of Verona, and Simone Cesaro, Head of the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department at Borgo Trento’s Woman and Child Hospital.

"Casa Elena", named in memory of Elena Travenzolo, a historical figure and guiding spirit of the Association, marks a significant milestone for ABEO, which has long supported young cancer patients and their families.

The apartments' names derive from children's creativity, using the letters of the ABEO acronym to reflect the values that have defined the Association’s mission for over 30 years: Love, Beauty, Empathy, and Optimism. Hellas Verona Foundation notably contributed to the apartment dedicated to Optimism through various fundraising initiatives.

Hellas Verona FC President Maurizio Setti shared: "This inauguration continues Verona's commitment beyond the pitch, extending into the community. After opening the Hellas Club Parlamento on Wednesday, we’re here today for an even more important event. This embodies the spirit of sports bringing fans and our Foundation together to realize projects like these beautiful apartments. It's a message and contribution to this phenomenal city with its passionate fans and meaningful initiatives, which we will continue to support".

Elena Setti, President of the Hellas Verona Foundation, expressed her emotions: "Today, I am truly happy and proud. I thank all the behind-the-scenes collaborators who are essential to these projects’ success. We dedicate this inauguration to Elena Travenzolo, who sadly left us but remains in our hearts. We stand by the most vulnerable, especially children. We are one big family, and this is just the beginning. We will continue to uphold our values and support these initiatives".

Alberto Bagnani, President of ABEO, emphasized the importance of this achievement: "Having a home, especially during times of pain and hardship, is crucial. For Italians, a home symbolizes intimacy, warmth, and protection. This is why providing a home for suffering children and their families is so important. With patience, time, and effort, we made this possible. Today is a wonderful day".

Lorenzo Fontana, President of the Chamber of Deputies, added: "A heartfelt applause to ABEO and everyone who contributed. Helping these families and children is one of the most beautiful things we can do. Verona’s solidarity shines through these initiatives. When unexpected hardships arise, support from compassionate individuals makes a world of difference. Thanks to ABEO, thousands have received help since 1988. We must continue to support these associations and children".

Elisa De Berti, Vice President of the Veneto Region, shared her joy: "This project is more than walls—it’s a home filled with love. Despite bureaucratic challenges, the focus remained on love and resilience. Today, Verona shows its great heart. Thanks to everyone who made our community proud".

Damiano Tommasi, Mayor of Verona, concluded: "Wherever ABEO is, Verona is there too. This tangible place offers refuge and support for families, even from outside Verona, accessing our excellent medical facilities. With determination, we overcome challenges to make initiatives like this a reality".