Javier Urra: “Hay niños más viejos que yo: les hemos robado la esperanza”

Javier Urra, a 69-year-old psychologist from Spain, made a startling revelation at the headquarters of the Pequeño Deseo Foundation in Madrid. The foundation, where Urra serves as its patron, recently published a study highlighting the long-lasting benefits of its initiatives for over 8,000 children with serious illnesses. Despite appearing much thinner than previously seen, Urra began the session by presenting a box of chocolates and three of his 91 published books. He held the foundation's golden star emblem, a symbol of its mission, in his jacket pocket.

Urra, who rose to prominence as the first Defensor del Menor of the Community of Madrid under then-Madrid President Alberto Ruiz Gallardón in 1996, has been a vocal advocate for children's rights throughout his career. Despite only serving for five years in that role, Urra's name remains closely tied to the defense of minors' rights.

He transitioned from his position as a government official to becoming a psychologist for the Ministry of Justice, specializing in managing private centers for children and adolescents with behavioral and mental health issues.

Recently, Urra announced that he is battling a highly malignant form of cancer, but has significantly reduced his public appearances. Nonetheless, he continues to dedicate his time and efforts to the foundation's cause.