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The 27th edition of the Vuelta a Formentera swim against cystic fibrosis has seen some truly special moments. In this year’s event, Carme, Juanjo and Isabel have been shining examples of what the Respiralia spirit is all about.
Stories that bring Respiralia to life
An event such as the Vuelta a Formentera Swim against Cystic Fibrosis needs to be told through stories. In this year’s edition, three of them have really moved us:
Isabel, a first-time participant in the event, tells us that Respiralia posed a huge challenge for her, as she is missing half a lung and suffers from bronchiectasis and severe asthma. After serious doubts about whether or not to come, she finally decided to accompany Nacho, who has encouraged her – thanks to his participation in previous years – to continue enjoying life and her wonderful daughter.
Juanjo, a long-standing participant in Respiralia, left Respiralia 2024 with discomfort in his tongue. A few months later, he would begin a gruelling battle – alongside what he calls “his sisters, chemo and radiotherapy” – against tongue cancer over the course of these two years. Towards the end of his treatment, Juanjo began preparing to take part in our event. The first 100 metres took everything he had, but his eagerness to return to the place that had given him so much meant that his effort allowed him to breathe in the Respiralia spirit once more.
Carme, a veteran canoeist on our team, has been battling two forms of cancer that have kept her away from the event for several years. Respiralia 2026 has welcomed her back so that she can once again share her skill, her joy and her strength with us.
Hugs of gratitude
Sunday, the final day of the event, is very special. Following the swimming stage, the choreographed routines take centre stage to thrill the audience in attendance. Against the idyllic backdrop of the crystal-clear waters, the teams – props and all – bring us laughter and excitement – lots of excitement – through the messages conveyed in their performances.
Finally, it’s time for the group photo and the moment when emotions run high as Isabel, Juanjo and Carme embrace, tears of joy streaming down their faces at having been able to take part in the event and to take away a unique sense of energy for the rest of the year. Respiralia is a unique and special event that combines sport, community spirit and solidarity, in which people—whether healthy or living with other conditions—contribute their strokes, their effort and their encouragement to raise awareness of cystic fibrosis and ensure that children and young people with this condition have access to the best treatment services.
Without them, it wouldn’t be possible
An event of this scale cannot be organised without the support of partner companies and a team of volunteers who are deeply committed to the cause. We would therefore like to thank Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Centro Ibicenco Cerámico, Linde Médica, Dextromedica, Aerogen and Alcampo as sponsors, the more than 30 partner organisations, and those individuals who are taking a few days’ holiday to volunteer at the event.
Photos and video of the event
Swedish films always work their magic. This year, they introduce us to an island that always welcomes us with open arms, represented by the voice-over of the girl who, one year when she was just a little girl, brought the protagonist of the music video for “Dalo todo” to life. You can watch this video here.
You can see the photo montage here.
You can see the pictures here.
#TogetheragainstCF
