Emilio Caballero, a resident of Cruce de Arinaga, has left a legacy of life after his passing. Despite being diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis, a degenerative and irreversible disease, he decided to donate his organs. This act of generosity has allowed six anonymous individuals to receive transplants and continue living.
The illness, which caused him intense pain, led Caballero to make a conscious decision about his end. His wife, Fátima López, and his brother, Marco, recount how he chose a dignified death and, despite his condition, knew he still held "a lot of life" within him to donate.
Caballero, described as a family pillar and a security sector worker, led a normal life until fainting spells at work raised health concerns. Following the diagnosis on February 7th, his family became his primary support. His wife, Fátima López, even left her job to dedicate herself entirely to his care.
Two years after the diagnosis, on September 11, 2023, coinciding with their wedding anniversary, Emilio and Fátima formalized his living will and organ donation. Despite the disease's progression, which necessitated a tracheotomy, Emilio's will was clear: "I am a donor, take everything you can from me," as his widow recounts.
In his final moments, Emilio bid farewell to his loved ones with serenity and a smile. His wife sang him songs like Rosana's 'Si tú no estás aquí'. The medical team at Hospital Insular, particularly Dr. Montesdeoca, were highlighted for their humanity and support throughout the process.
Emilio's legacy has inspired his family; both his wife and brother have also become organ donors. His children, Melanie and Fran, feel proud of their father's example of generosity. Emilio's heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys were successfully transplanted, and his widow sends a message to the recipients: "He lives on in other people, and I wish them to take care of him and cherish him just as he cherished them."
