In a year defined by collective struggle, Barcelona-based psychologist Lluis Morales proved how personal trials can transform into extraordinary acts of compassion. After surviving a life-threatening car accident in 2000 that left him hospitalized at Vall d'Hebron for a year, Morales made an unexpected return to the same facility two decades later — this time as a volunteer supporting a young girl battling cancer.
Their journey began when Morales, drawing from his own experience with trauma, began mentoring the child through her treatment. 'I thought hospitals were my past,' he shared, 'but pain taught me how to light hope for others.' Their bond became a bright spot in 2020's darkness, demonstrating resilience through shared vulnerability.
This story emerged as part of CGTN's Global Stringer initiative capturing grassroots heroes worldwide. Amid pandemic hardships, Morales' cross-generational friendship underscores healthcare's human dimension — and why mental resilience matters as much as physical recovery in overcoming global crises.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
