Leukemia-struggling youth leaves indelible impact on the world
In the heart of Marbella, Spain, a sense of loss and celebration intertwine as the community bids farewell to Pablo Raéz, a 21-year-old devout Catholic who touched countless lives with his courage, solidarity, and love.
Pablo, who passed away last Saturday, was remembered as a "valiant fighter who has saved many lives" during the funeral Mass held at the Incarnation parish. Fr. Jose Lopez Solórzano, pastor of the church and Pablo's godfather, presided over the service.
Two years ago, Pablo was diagnosed with leukemia. Despite the challenging journey that followed, he remained an inspiring figure, actively encouraging bone marrow donations. His efforts led to an increase of over 1,000 percent in new donors in his home city in 2016, with a total of 11,201 new donors.
Fr. Lopez recalled in his homily that Pablo grew up in an atmosphere of simplicity, a quality from which great things emerged. He shared Pablo's own words, "Leukemia is teaching me more than it has taken from me," and "Death is part of life, and so you shouldn't fear it but love it."
Pablo's impact extends beyond Marbella, as an online petition has been launched to name a street in his honour. With over 100,000 signatures, the petition calls remembering Pablo for posterity an "act of justice" due to his immense act of courage, solidarity, and love.
Pablo's Facebook page, where he shared his daily struggles and positive attitude, boasted over 300,000 followers. His spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched, and his legacy continues to inspire.
Fr. Lopez, in a reported statement, expressed his shock at Pablo's gratitude for his leukemia and shared that he learned from his struggles every day. About 1,000 people attended the funeral Mass for Pablo, a testament to the impact he had on his community.
In a final act of solidarity, Pablo underwent a transplant, a process he was afraid of. However, Fr. Lopez's presence helped him recover, embodying the love and support that Pablo gave so freely to others.
Pablo Raéz, a beacon of hope and courage, will be deeply missed. Yet, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched and in the countless lives saved through his selfless acts.
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