November 15 is the birthday of Fernando Augusto “Terere”, and GRACIEMAG.com never forgets the date.
This Sunday, though, there was little cause for celebration at the house that was once known as the happiest home on Cantagalo Hill, in Rio de Janeiro.
Terere on top at 2009 Brazilian Nationals, his last appearance in Tijuca Tenis Clube. Photo: GRACIEMAG Files.
“I had a cake and lunch ready and brought together the close family for the birthday of the twins and my son. He [Fernando] doesn’t understand much of what is going on but he comes in the living room now and then. Most of the time he spends alone, in his room…” mother Regina Helena told GRACIEMAG.com by telephone. “Every now and then he eats something, but then he just goes back to his room, where he keeps quiet,” the mother of the star and wife of Tio Barriga says. In tears, Dona Lena says the family will not fold.
“It’s sad, he’s been like this for five years [diagnosed with depression]. We will never give up, but he needs to check in for treatment voluntarily. His friends are helping, we really need it, and we have hope. In a little while we will call Fernando to sing happy birthday.