The Foundation Pro Unit of Palliative Care in Costa Rica received this Friday the Sasakawa Health Prize given by the World Health Organization, during a ceremony celebrated in Geneva, Switzerland.

“The Sasakawa Health Prize consists of a statuette and a sum of money to be given to one or more persons, institutions or nongovernmental organizations having accomplished outstanding innovative work in health development, in order to encourage the further development of such work”, explains the WHO website.

The Foundation Pro Unit of Palliative Care was recognized for its contribution to defend the rights of children that suffer terminal illnesses.

Lisbeth Quesada, president of the Foundation, received the prize, consisting in a statuette and a sum of $40,000.00. “We want every child that needs palliative care to receive it, we will support the patients and their families, everyone has the right to a dignified death without pain. Thank you Mr. Sasakawa for this prize, thank you for believing in us and for your faith in humanity and thanks for your support”, commented Quesada.

This Foundation was created in 1990 and provides inpatient care as well as services for oupatients; it is estimated that only one third of the minors that need it have access to this attention.

“Many countries don’t offer this type of care for children and the families that are facing these challenges. There is a lot to learn about the work of this foundation. It is an important step to discuss this topic, and offer health for all”, stated Yohei Sasakawa

The Foundation has been raising funds to build a new center, the Pediatric Palliative Care Home, since their current infrastructure is exceeding its capacities and they are unable to provide the services needed to all children that require it.