Rumors Dispelled Over Univision Talent Fernando Del Rincon's Cancer Diagnosis Being Fabricated

Rumors Dispelled Over Univision Talent Fernando Del Rincon's Cancer Diagnosis Being Fabricated

Elvia Barboa, Chief Executive Officer of PADRES Contra El Cancer (PADRES) issues a statement dispelling rumors their National Spokesperson Fernando Del Rincon lied about his cancer treatment

LOS ANGELES, July 8 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to media reports suggesting that Univision's Fernando Del Rincon's cancer diagnosis was fabricated in order to draw media attention to himself, PADRES CEO, Elvia Barboa, M.A., found it imperative to issue the following statement to dispel such potentially libelous remarks:

"PADRES' responsibility is to ensure that accurate information is disseminated as it relates to the organization and its representatives. With respect to Fernando Del Rincon, the fact remains that he was diagnosed with bladder cancer in May 2008 and, fortunately, underwent a successful surgery that removed his tumor."

The rumors have caused concern for PADRES in particular because Del Rincon serves as one of its national spokespersons. PADRES Contra El Cancer is an organization committed to improving the quality of life for Latino children with cancer and their families. Most importantly, PADRES served as an integral part in Del Rincon's entire diagnosis and treatment.

According to Ms. Barboa, "PADRES supported Fernando with the same care, compassion and patient navigation provided to any family who has a child with cancer. PADRES helped Fernando understand his tests, diagnosis and treatment options; helped him secure a second opinion; helped him navigate the complex healthcare system; and most importantly, offered him much-needed emotional support. PADRES stood beside and continues to stand by him every step of the way."

Ms. Barboa disclosed that Fernando's choice to make public his diagnosis on May 31, 2008 at the PADRES' 5K Charity Run/Walk in Los Angeles stemmed from three reasons: 1) to encourage others to have annual health exams to prevent any serious disease; 2) to instill strength and hope in families to fight tenaciously for their children undergoing cancer treatment; and 3) to announce he would author a book reflecting on his emotional experience and struggles during his cancer process.

"If media outlets print inaccurate and misleading information about Fernando Del Rincon's cancer diagnosis, then such may indirectly discredit PADRES Contra El Cancer and its 23 years of advocacy on behalf of the pediatric cancer community. PADRES has been fortunate to work with many families and celebrities. Likewise, we are aware that often times the truth can unfortunately be distorted. PADRES remains honored and privileged to have Fernando Del Rincon serve as our spokesperson," concluded Ms. Barboa.

About PADRES:

PADRES Contra El Cancer (PADRES) is an organization committed to improving the quality of life for Latino children with cancer and their families. PADRES programs, activities and services, while primarily oriented to the Latino community, serve childhood cancer patients from ALL races and ethnic origins. No family is turned away.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: PADRES Contra El Cancer

CONTACT: Maribel De La Torre of PADRES Contra El Cancer, Cell,
+1-818-581-5458, mdelatorre@IAmHOPE.org

Web site:

http://www.iamhope.org/

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