The European Kidney Patients Federation (EKPF) regrets to inform of the passing of Carlos Mª Romeo Casabona, the first president and a key figure in the founding of our organization.
Carlos Mª Romeo Casabona had a distinguished career in criminal law and bioethics, making significant contributions to the kidney patient community across Europe. He was instrumental in establishing the EKPF’s predecessor, CEAPIR, in 1981. During his doctoral studies in Germany, he initiated a crucial alliance with France Rein and the German federation, Bundesverband Niere e.V., which led to the formation of CEAPIR. His leadership was pivotal in strengthening the voice of kidney patients in Europe.
In addition to his work with EKPF, Carlos was a key contributor to important legislative developments in Spain. He authored the draft of the Spanish transplant law, reviewed the Spanish Patient Autonomy Law, and was involved in the signing of an international treaty against organ trafficking.
Carlos was a kidney transplant recipient, having lived with his transplant for over 40 years following eight years on hemodialysis. His contributions to the kidney patient community were recognized in 2019 when he was named honorary president of the Spanish Federation of Kidney Patients (ALCER).
His influence in the field will be remembered