“I was a psychedelic teenager. Then, at 18, I had a bad trip with LSD, and became very paranoid”, explained Jules Evans to his audience at the event that took place at Champalimaud Foundation, at the beginning of the month, under the title “Psychedelic Therapy: From Evidence to Equity”. Today, Evans is the founder and Director of the Challenging Psychedelic Experiences Project, the leading resource for post-psychedelic difficulties and what helps people recover from them.

The distinction recognises in addition to Leonor Beleza’s outstanding contribution to strengthening the friendship between Portugal and France, her lifelong dedication to causes of shared importance including the promotion of democracy, the advancement of gender equality, the improvement of healthcare systems, and the support of medical and scientific research.

The ceremony took place at the French Embassy in Portugal, at the Palácio de Santos, in the presence of the highest-ranking dignitaries.

Fred Hollows was an extraordinary man, “one of the most interesting people to have come out of the area of ophthalmology for many years, because he was a real disruptor”, said Nicola Watkinson, chair of the Fred Hollows Foundation UK, during an interview she gave us when she was in Lisbon, in September, to receive the 2025 António Champalimaud Vision Award.

With profound sadness at the passing of Professor Jorge Cruz, we pay tribute to our colleague and our friend. He will be remembered not only as a surgeon but also for his enduring legacy as a teacher, mentor, and guide. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends.

This year’s event carried an added significance, as it marked the 15th anniversary of the inauguration of the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, as well as the 385th year of Portugal’s Independence Restoration. These celebrations gave the day an even more symbolic and festive atmosphere, reinforcing the strong connection between the Foundation, the city of Lisbon, and Portugal's cultural heritage.