María Isabel Fraga dies in humanitarian mission in Madagascar

María Isabel Fraga, the 78-year-old eldest daughter of former Spanish politician Manuel Fraga, has died during a humanitarian mission in Madagascar. The cause is believed to be tuberculosis contracted while treating patients in a remote clinic. Source: elmundo.es

The mission

• Fraga, a retired internist, regularly volunteered in Africa, traveling twice a year to Malawi and Madagascar for two-month stints. Source: elmundo.es
• She was working in Tsihombe, a remote village, treating tuberculosis patients without adequate protective gear. Source: elmundo.es
• After experiencing respiratory failure, she was transferred to Tolanaro hospital but died shortly after arrival while awaiting a medical evacuation flight. Source: elmundo.es

The reaction

• Family sources confirm she passed away on Friday, June 12, and arrangements for repatriation are underway. Source: lavanguardia
• ABC reports that her body is being held by a religious organization until it can be returned to Spain, and a funeral mass is expected in Galicia. Source: abc.es

A life of service

• Fraga chose a life away from politics, dedicating herself to medicine and charity. She also cared for her parents in their final years. Source: abc.es
• According to close contacts, she was inspired by Pope Leo XIV to make this last trip, intending it to be her final mission. Source: elmundo.es