Lisbon: Physiotherapist ConstSncia Vieira Dias Tomás, a founding member of the Angolan Paralympic Committee (CPA), died early Thursday morning in Lisbon, Portugal, after a long illness. A source from the institution told ANGOP in Luanda that the professional spent some time in that European country undergoing treatment, where she eventually passed away.

According to Angola Press News Agency, ConstSncia Vieira Dias Tomás played a pivotal role in the development of the CPA, particularly in athletics, contributing significantly to the sport’s achievements in Angola, Africa, and on the global stage. Her contributions were notably evident during the Paralympic Games, where she was instrumental in José Sayovo’s victories at the 2004 Athens Games, where he clinched three gold medals in the 100, 200, and 400 meters.

Her influence extended to the Beijing 2008 Paralympics, where Sayovo secured three silver medals in the same distances, and continued through to the London 2012 Games, earning a bronze medal in the 200
meters and a gold medal in the 400 meters. Beyond her work in athletics, ConstSncia Tomás was dedicated to recruiting new professionals for the CPA, ensuring the growth and sustainability of the organization.

Throughout her career, she also contributed to the Progresso Associaço Sambizanga and the EKA do Dondo Sports Center in the province of Cuanza Norte. Born on July 27, 1962, ConstSncia Tomás was a graduate in Physical Therapy, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and commitment to the development of Paralympic sports in Angola.