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

    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.
 
 
 

SOURCE PADRES Contra El Cancer