The tennis player David Català, 37, a native of Salou (Tarragona), has been hospitalized at Queen Mary Hospital in Hong Kong for a month after being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Given the need to cover the expensive medical treatment, which is not covered by the local public health system, the Club Tennis Tarragona decided to take action.
“"When they explained the situation of David Català and how we could help him, we did not hesitate for a moment. We had to do something."
The benefit day, scheduled for February 7, will include multiple activities, and the funds raised will go entirely to the former tennis school player and coach. The total estimated cost of the treatment amounts to €75,000, of which the family has already raised €64,000 thanks to a crowdfunding campaign initiated by his partner, Ayelen Alcover.
Català's partner publicized the illness and started the campaign to cover the first phase of the oncological treatment, valued at €27,600. Currently, €8,300 has already been spent on initial tests, ongoing hospital expenses, and essential medicines, such as the specific drug Ponatinib, which costs €3,000 monthly.
“"This has not been easy for us. Like many families, we never imagined we would find ourselves in this situation. However, we have been deeply moved by the kindness, messages, and support we have already received."
David Català has lived in Hong Kong for 15 years, arriving in 2011 for a coaching job after giving up his dream of becoming a professional player. In the autonomous region of China, he became the national selector and, as a naturalized citizen, played in the Davis Cup. He was also the national champion in 2015 and 2016.
