Brazilian dancer touched by warm medical care in Ningbo

Anna writes a text to thank the medical staff. [Photo/Yongpai App]

When language barriers meet urgent medical needs, compassion can make all the difference. For Anna (pseudonym), a 32-year-old Brazilian dancer living in Ningbo, a recent hospital visit turned into a memorable experience of care and understanding.

Anna, who has lived in the city for two years, visited the breast and thyroid surgery department of Ningbo Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine shortly before Spring Festival after experiencing severe pain in her right breast.

Communication proved challenging. Anna's native language is Portuguese, and she speaks little Chinese or English. Liu Linglin, deputy chief physician, patiently used translation software to understand her condition.

After reviewing her medical history, the team learned that Anna had undergone breast implant surgery three years earlier. Ultrasound results showed fluid accumulation around the implant, while blood tests revealed inflammation levels far above normal, confirming an abscess.

The doctors then adopted an integrated treatment plan combining Western and traditional Chinese medicine. With ultrasound-guided drainage removing pus, Anna's pain was quickly relieved. She also received herbal medicine and topical treatments to aid recovery.

After a week of treatment, the swelling subsided and Anna was discharged. Before leaving, she wrote a heartfelt thank-you note expressing her gratitude for the care, respect, and kindness she received during such a difficult time.