The indelible memory of Joan Hunt

The life of someone with a charitable heart is never clear of obstacles and difficult moments. That was true in the case of Joan Hunt, the founder of Cudeca, who played a key role in bringing palliative care to the Costa del Sol. Overcoming obstacles during her life helped strengthen the character and resolve of this British woman who was full of empathy and kindness for others.

Joan left us at the end of June this year, but her memory lives on and will remain in the province of Malaga thanks to a legacy without equal: Cudeca, the foundation whose aim is to improve the quality of life of people with terminal illnesses.

Friends and colleagues were among guests at the emotional tribute to Joan Hunt held on Wednesday in Malaga's Colegio Oficial de Médicos and organised by the Academia Malagueña de Ciencias (Malaga Science Academy).

The emotive event was attended by representatives of healthcare-related institutions, including the regional government's health delegate in Malaga, Carlos Bautista; the fourth vice-president of the provincial government (Diputación), Natacha Rivas; the president of the health workers association UPROSAMA, Juan Manuel Nieblas; representatives of Malaga University and doctors from Cudeca.

Speaking at the event, vice-president of the foundation Susan Hannam, remembered her colleague and friend with tears in her eyes. It is with "joy and gratitude", she said, that they face the challenge Joan left them: "to celebrate life".

Dr Marisa Martín, Cudeca's medical director, then gave a moving address about Joan's life before Cudeca: Joan Hunt, One in a Million; and Dr Ismael Herruzo spoke of her work at Cudeca, showing a moving and inspiring video of Joan speaking.

Ever-present, as at all Cudeca events, was the sunflower, the symbol of palliative care, full of light and hope and worn by all the guests, who were happy to have known a woman so full of affection for others, with a charitable soul and untiring spirit.