“Throughout the years of developing the initiative, we have met many people whose stories are very different, yet they all remind us how much more we can do to create a society where a person is seen first and foremost for who they are, not for their disability. Therefore, this year we want to expand the boundaries of the initiative and provide space for various experiences – we will talk not only with athletes but also with other people who have physical or other disabilities. We hope that open and respectful conversations will help us better understand each other and at the same time encourage reducing prejudices,” says Kristina Veštortienė, General Director of UAB “Nemuno vaistinė,” which operates the “Camelia” pharmacy network.
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Different stories – an opportunity to get to know better
The social responsibility initiative “Together for Each Other” began implementation in 2022 when “Camelia” established a partnership with the Lithuanian Paralympic Committee. During this time, the initiative has grown: the public was invited to get to know Paralympians better, support Lithuanian athletes at major competitions, and their personal stories became an opportunity to talk about the daily lives of people with disabilities, the support of relatives and the environment, aspirations, and the importance of society’s attitude.
Last year, much attention was given to telling how family, friends, teachers, colleagues, and the community can influence the self-confidence and ability of a person with a disability to pursue their goals. This year, this discussion continues – those sharing their stories will talk about the significance of support, understanding, and the opportunity to be themselves in their lives.
Partnership with the Lithuanian Paralympic Committee strengthens
An important part of “Together for Each Other” remains the partnership between “Camelia” and the Lithuanian Paralympic Committee. During the years of cooperation, financial support has been provided to athletes, public awareness campaigns have been implemented together, and participation in Paralympic community events and other joint activities has taken place. This year, “Camelia” is increasing its support for “Parateam Lithuania” to 30,000 euros – last year, athletes were allocated 20,000 euros.
“The four-year partnership is important to us because it is not limited to just supporting sports. Together, we have the opportunity to talk about people with disabilities and what opportunities accessible environments, support, and society’s attitude provide them. Paralympians change many people’s understanding of disability through their results and daily work, but there are many more such stories beyond professional sports. Therefore, expanding the initiative by involving people with various experiences in the conversation is a meaningful step,” says Mindaugas Bilius, President of the Lithuanian Paralympic Committee.
According to him, financial business support for athletes provides more opportunities to prepare purposefully for competitions, participate in international starts, and achieve the highest results. Long-term partnership also provides more stability in planning preparation and helps maintain public attention on Paralympic sports during periods between major sporting events.
Change begins with understanding
The “Together for Each Other” initiative also aims to practically contribute to easing the daily lives of people with disabilities and reducing the financial burden they face. Since 2022, the “Camelia” pharmacies have operated a loyalty program of the same name, which, with the “Low Prices” card marked with the “Together for Each Other” sticker, allows people with disabilities to purchase pharmacy goods up to 30% cheaper.
“Sometimes change requires very specific solutions, sometimes more knowledge and a simple willingness to listen to another person. For us, ‘Together for Each Other’ means a long-term commitment to contribute to such change,” says K. Veštortienė.
About “Camelia”
The “Camelia” pharmacy network has been operating in Lithuania for more than 30 years and today is the largest pharmacy network in the country by number of pharmacies. It unites more than 350 pharmacies and over 1500 employees. In daily operations, the “Camelia” team strives to ensure professional pharmaceutical service, pharmacists’ attention to patients, and the availability of necessary medicines and other products at low prices.
“Camelia” has been awarded the best reputation company in Lithuania for eight consecutive years. According to public opinion research data in 2026, “Camelia” is the pharmacy with the lowest prices and the most recommended pharmacy network in the country.
