It is with deep regret and sadness that we write to report the passing of one of the greatest supporters of biomedical research and healthcare across Catalonia; Dr. Pere Mir, Founder and President of the CELLEX Foundation. Further to a short period of deteriorating health, Dr. Mir died last Friday at his home in Barcelona, aged 97.
His exceptional belief in biomedical research as a driving force behind economic development and improved healthcare led him to create the CELLEX Foundation in 2002. Since its inception, the Foundation, which he also presided, has financed projects of scientific excellence that frankly, would not be a reality today without such immense support. The many initiatives that have been fortunate enough to benefit from Dr. Mir´s conviction and thus, funding from CELLEX, include VHIO, the Institute of Photonic Sciences, the IDIBAPS Institute of the Hospital Clínic, other leading hospitals across Catalonia including the Vall d´Hebron University Hospital, as well as the Centro de Formación Interdisciplinaria Superior (CFIS).
“I would like recognize the immeasurable generosity of Dr. Mir, his backing and belief in our Institute — without which VHIO would not have been able to mark the many milestones to-date in its development, expansion, and contribution to advancing cancer discovery and ultimately improving outcomes for patients. In my capacity as Director of VHIO, I have been extremely fortunate and honored to have known such a remarkably kind human being, a true gentleman and scholar. Needless to say, he will be sorely missed by all.” observed Josep Tabernero.
On behalf of VHIO, we take this opportunity to extend our deepest sympathies to Dr. Mir´s family and loved ones.
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