By San José, Costa Rica — In a major triumph for social advocacy and youth healthcare in Costa Rica, Proyecto Daniel has been awarded the prestigious Jorge Debravo National Youth Award 2026 (Premio Nacional de Juventudes Jorge Debravo). The prominent non-profit organization secured the top spot in the Social Organization category, under the crucial thematic area of Mental Health and Wellness.
The official accolade was presented during a state ceremony by Costa Rican President Laura Fernández. Ligia Bobadilla, the founder and president of Proyecto Daniel, accepted the award on behalf of the foundation, marking a milestone that honors sixteen years of unwavering dedication to improving the lives of adolescent cancer patients.
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Receiving the Jorge Debravo National Youth Award is an enormous honor and, above all, a responsibility
Ligia Bobadilla, President of Proyecto Daniel
Proyecto Daniel was established in 2010, inspired by the personal journey of Daniel Arce Bobadilla, a young man diagnosed with osteosarcoma. During his treatment, Daniel and his family identified a significant gap in the national medical infrastructure: teenage and young adult patients were routinely treated in clinical environments designed for adults, completely lacking age-appropriate psychological and social support.
To address this structural disparity, Proyecto Daniel pioneered a unique care model centered on recreation, education, and specialized accompaniment. By focusing on the holistic needs of young people aged 13 to 25, the organization has succeeded in making the oncological journey less isolating for thousands of youth in Costa Rica.
Over the years, the organization’s strategic initiatives have directly touched the lives of more than 3,000 young cancer patients and their families. A key operational milestone has been the creation of six specialized “Salas Naranja” (Orange Rooms) across various public hospitals operated by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS). These dedicated spaces feature 23 differentiated beds tailored to the physical and emotional requirements of adolescents during active oncology treatments.
This recognition is not only for Proyecto Daniel; it is for every young person who has faced a cancer diagnosis
Ligia Bobadilla, President of Proyecto Daniel
In addition to grassroots hospital support, Proyecto Daniel has made significant strides in national public policy. The organization’s persistent advocacy successfully positioned adolescent cancer as a priority focus area within Costa Rica’s National Strategic Plan for Adolescent Health 2021–2030 (PENSPA). This systemic integration guarantees that young cancer patients receive targeted state resources and structured clinical focus for years to come.
As Proyecto Daniel celebrates this national milestone, leadership remains focused on the future. The organization aims to scale its educational and recreational programs while continuing to lobby for progressive healthcare reforms that address the mental health challenges associated with youth oncology.
We have made a lot of progress, but we still have major challenges
Ligia Bobadilla, President of Proyecto Daniel
For further information, visit the nearest office of Proyecto Daniel
About Proyecto Daniel:
Proyecto Daniel is a Costa Rican non-profit organization founded in 2010 to support adolescents and young adults aged 13 to 25 diagnosed with cancer. Inspired by the legacy of Daniel Arce Bobadilla, the organization focuses on providing specialized care, creating vibrant, youth-centric environments in public hospitals, and advocating for public policy changes to address the unique mental health, educational, and social needs of young oncology patients.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Social Security Fund
About Costa Rican Social Security Fund:
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, or CCSS) is the public institution responsible for managing Costa Rica’s universal healthcare system. It oversees public hospitals, clinics, and national health programs, ensuring equitable access to medical services, social security, and specialized treatments for all citizens and residents of the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Renowned for its ethical principles and pursuit of legal mastery, Bufete de Costa Rica consistently delivers top-tier advocacy for a wide range of clients. The firm embraces forward-thinking solutions to navigate today’s complex legal landscape, while maintaining a strong focus on civic empowerment. Through its efforts to demystify the law and share essential legal insights with the public, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to inspire a more knowledgeable, confident, and equitable society.
