Iberia Partners with University of Navarra to Aid Childhood Cancer Treatment

Iberia collaborates with the University of Navarra, donating €60,000 to support the treatment of children with cancer, providing travel for medical care in Spain.

Iberia Joins University of Navarra to Support Pediatric Cancer Treatment

New Partnership for a Noble Cause

Iberia has announced a partnership with the University of Navarra to advance cancer research and facilitate the treatment of children from outside Spain. The airline will donate €60,000 to help bring sick children to Spain for treatment at the Clínica Universidad de Navarra.

First Beneficiary: Marlon Dariel

Overcoming a Rare Disease

One of the first children to benefit from this agreement is Marlon Dariel, a 7-year-old from Ecuador. Marlon traveled to Pamplona to receive treatment for Hyper-IgM syndrome, a rare congenital primary immunodeficiency. He was treated at the Paediatric Cancer Centre of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra and underwent a successful bone marrow transplant.

A Joyous Return Home

After overcoming his illness, Marlon returned home to Guayaquil on Iberia flight IB6461, accompanied by his parents. He received a special farewell with a personalized cake at Iberia’s Velázquez Premium Lounge.

Promoting Pediatric Cancer Research

Agreement Details

The partnership was formalized in Pamplona, with the agreement signed by Álvaro Balibrea, the manager of the University, and Beatriz Guillén, Iberia’s Director of Global Sales. This collaboration aims to enhance pediatric cancer research and provide vital medical treatment to children who cannot receive adequate care in their home countries.

Statements from Key Leaders

University of Navarra's Commitment

Álvaro Balibrea expressed his happiness about the agreement, highlighting the importance of the partnership in promoting pediatric cancer research and helping children receive necessary treatment. “Part of the mission of the University of Navarra is to disseminate knowledge and science to help society, which is one of the aims of this partnership,” he said.

Iberia's Social Impact

Beatriz Guillén emphasized Iberia’s commitment to social responsibility: “At Iberia, we believe that there is a new way of flying, on the basis of purpose. This partnership is the best example of our social impact strategy and aligns with our mission to generate prosperity by connecting people with the world.”

Supporting Children in Need

Expanding Support

Marlon Dariel’s case is just the beginning. The agreement between Iberia and the University of Navarra will continue to support many other children who require specialized medical care unavailable in their home countries, enabling them to receive life-saving treatments in Spain.