Honouring the legacy of John Diaz
A commemorative plaque has been unveiled at St Bernard’s Hospital in memory of John Diaz, founder member and former Chairman of the Prostate Cancer Support Group, the precursor of Prostate Cancer Gibraltar.
Recognising a pioneer of prostate cancer awareness in Gibraltar
The plaque was unveiled outside the Urology Clinic at St Bernard’s Hospital by the Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez, Minister for Health and Care, in the presence of members of Mr Diaz’s family, representatives of the Gibraltar Health Authority and members and trustees of Prostate Cancer Gibraltar.
John Diaz worked tirelessly in the community to raise awareness of prostate cancer at a time when many men were reluctant to talk openly about the disease. His determination helped place early detection, patient support and men’s health firmly in the public conversation.
His work laid important foundations for what Prostate Cancer Gibraltar continues to do today: encouraging awareness, supporting patients and families, promoting PSA testing after counselling, and working closely with the Gibraltar Health Authority to improve services for patients.
John’s dedication helped change the way Gibraltar speaks about prostate cancer, early detection and men’s health.
Prostate Cancer Gibraltar
A final act of generosity
In their final will and testament, John Diaz and his late wife Evelyn left a legacy donation of £20,000 to Prostate Cancer Gibraltar.
This generous donation will help continue to fund projects aimed at further improving services for patients in Gibraltar. It is also a powerful reflection of Mr Diaz’s lifelong commitment to helping others affected by prostate cancer.
Prostate Cancer Gibraltar is deeply grateful to the Diaz family for their continued support and for helping preserve John’s legacy for future generations.
Images from the unveiling and presentation
Click on any image to view it in full size.
Plaque unveiling
The Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez unveiling the plaque in memory of John Diaz.
Joe Holliday and Minister Arias-Vasquez
Joe Holliday, Chairman of Prostate Cancer Gibraltar, with the Minister during the unveiling.
Family, committee and guests
Members of the Diaz family, Prostate Cancer Gibraltar and representatives attending the ceremony.
John Diaz
Archive photograph of John Diaz, whose work continues to inspire Prostate Cancer Gibraltar.
£20,000 legacy donation
The legacy donation from John and Evelyn Diaz will help support future GHA projects for patients.
Official press release
HM Government of Gibraltar press release announcing the unveiling of the commemorative plaque.
Continuing John Diaz’s mission
Prostate Cancer Gibraltar continues to encourage men over the age of 50, and men over 45 with a family history of prostate cancer, to seek advice and consider checking their PSA after counselling.
A PSA test is a simple blood test that can help support early detection. John Diaz’s legacy reminds us that speaking openly about men’s health can save lives and support families across Gibraltar.