Dear friends and colleagues,
It is with deep sadness that we express our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Professor Laureano Fernández-Cruz, a pioneer of pancreas transplantation in Catalonia and Spain, Professor of Surgery at the University of Barcelona, and an internationally renowned leader in biliopancreatic and endocrine surgery.
With great pride, I have witnessed firsthand the surgical revolution he brought about through his pioneering techniques in pancreas transplantation and his tireless dedication. It is an honour to continue his legacy, to follow the path he helped create, and to uphold the leadership achieved in our country and beyond our borders thanks to his vision and commitment.
As the founder of the Spanish Pancreas Transplant Group, Professor Fernández-Cruz leaves an indelible mark not only through his scientific contributions, but also through his human values, his leadership, and his generosity toward colleagues and trainees. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of professionals.
During the last years of his life, he devoted his experience and reflections to a remarkable intellectual endeavor, authoring La dignidad de un mundo en transformación (2021), La revolución biotecnológica en el comportamiento humano (2025) and Las máscaras de la sociedad contemporánea (2025).
In these difficult moments, we wish to extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.
May they find comfort in the immense human, scientific, and academic legacy that Professor Laureano Fernández-Cruz leaves to society.
With affection and respect,
Joana Ferrer and the EPITA Board.