Viral Plea After ‘Tigrinho’ Gambling Losses Brings Therapy and Aid in Fortaleza

Overview

• Assíria Macêdo, 29, an eyelash technician in Fortaleza, posted a viral video describing addiction to the Jogo do Tigrinho online betting app and asking for help.
• She reports about R$50,000 in debts after years of compulsive play, with loans from loan sharks and her parents selling two houses as the family now relies on others for housing.
• She says the strain ended her marriage and her distress stopped her from working and left her afraid to leave home or hear cars and motorbikes.
• After the video spread online, she received free psychological counseling and, according to friends, stepped away from social media and phone use to protect her mental health.
• Friends launched a virtual fundraiser and a raffle on Instagram, and she is seeking work to repay debts and support her two daughters and elderly parents.