Shakira arrived urgently to Barranquilla due to his father’s hospitalization, William Mebarak, 92 years old, who is admitted to the ICU of the Iberoamerica Clinic due to breathing difficulties due to pneumonia, according to close sources.
The artist arrived alone in the capital of the Atlantic, without the company of her children, with the purpose of supporting her mother, Nidia Ripoll, during these difficult family times.
In context: Shakira’s father, William Mebarak, was hospitalized in Barranquilla
The artist arrived early this Thursday and was escorted by a security scheme that included the Barranquilla Metropolitan Police and private security personnel. Witnesses saw the singer enter the Iberoamerica Clinic in a white van, escorted by other vehicles and police patrols.
According to reports, the entrance of the singer of hits like The boss and Monotony The Iberoamerica Clinic was registered around 10:30 a.m. on Thursday in a vehicle caravan.
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Although the exact reason for his hospitalization has not been revealed, close sources informed RCN Radio that his hospitalization was due to respiratory complications, possibly linked to pneumonia.
“Due to data protection rights, they refrain from providing information about their health status and other details,” the clinic’s security team told the aforementioned media.
The clinic’s communications team emphasized that no additional information will be provided due to the family’s request for privacy. This express request seeks to keep details regarding William Mebarak’s health status confidential.
The health of the artist’s father has been in decline. Months ago, Mebarak had been hospitalized in another medical center in the city and, in June 2023, he underwent surgery in Cartagena due to a hydrocephalus problem. In that procedure, a valve was successfully placed in his brain.
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Shakira’s arrival was unexpected and it is still unknown how long she will remain in the city. It is estimated that her stay will be as long as necessary for her father to overcome the respiratory condition.
About Shakira’s father
William Mebarak Chadid was born in New York in 1931. He is of Lebanese origin, but he emigrated to Colombia when he was five years old. In his life he has held various jobs, from radio host, jeweler and merchant, to medical representative, insurance agent, literature professor and journalist.
In fact, the Barranquilla artist has mentioned that her passion for writing songs was born watching his father work long hours at a typewriter.
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In addition to his multiple professions, William Mebarak Chadid has been a constant figure in his daughter’s artistic life, actively participating in some of her projects.
His influence, along with his versatility in various work areas, make him a notable figure both personally and professionally, standing out worldwide in the music industry.
