After a trip to Chad as a UNICEF ambassador, Pau Gasol decided to launch a charity project for children’s health 10 years ago.
The man who is considered one of the best European basketball players in history
Pau Gasol retired in 2021, with an estimated income of almost 185 million euros, placing him at the top of the list of highest-paid basketball players in 2022.
In addition to his sporting and financial success, he heads a foundation, Gasol Foundation, founded in 2013 with his brother Marc. The two Spaniards have attracted international attention for their philanthropic dedication, particularly in the fight against the scourge of childhood obesity. This strong interest in children’s health is inspired by their parents (both involved in the medical field).
Towards zero childhood obesity
Aware that childhood obesity has become one of the biggest challenges threatening children’s health today, Pau and Marc are committed to fighting this pandemic. The means used? The two brothers’ fame, but also their relationships and financial resources. They focus their efforts on obesity prevention strategies with a holistic approach focusing on exercise, good food choices, emotional well-being, self-esteem, and quality sleep: key elements to maintaining a healthy weight. Their goal is to provide as many children as possible with the knowledge and tools to enter adulthood in perfect physical and mental health. They state: “[By tackling the problem of childhood obesity] we are also indirectly tackling some of the biggest social, economic, and health problems of our time.”
