LA Tenorio announces Stage Three colon cancer diagnosis but vows to return stronger

LA Tenorio, the Barangay Ginebra guard and PBA's 'Ironman', has announced that he has been diagnosed with Stage Three colon cancer. The news came after he missed his first game after 744 consecutive appearances, claiming that he was nursing a groin injury. However, he later revealed the truth, saying that he wanted to keep the real reason for his absence a secret.

Despite his diagnosis, Tenorio remains optimistic and says that he is confident he will return to the court stronger than ever. He has undergone surgery and will soon undergo treatment for the next few months with the help of the best doctors in the Philippines and Singapore. He assures fans that he is not yet retiring from basketball and will continue to fight until he is healed.

As someone whose profession is tied to health and entertainment, Tenorio admits that it would have been difficult to keep his condition a secret any longer. He apologizes to his teammates, coaches, fans, and the media for hiding his true situation and for any unnecessary gossip, fake news, and misinterpretations that may have resulted from it.

Tenorio has dedicated his entire life to basketball, giving 17 full years to the PBA. He has committed his body and health to the love of the game, but he understands that there are things beyond one's control. Despite the setback, he remains hopeful and is lifting everything to God.

I was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. The initial testing three weeks ago led me to instantly miss practices and games. I have completed my surgery last week and will soon undergo treatment for the next few months.

I have given not only 17 full years to the PBA, but have dedicated my whole life to basketball. I have committed my body and health for the love of the game. It has been my passion and love. Sadly, there are things beyond one's control. But with my FAITH, I am lifting everything to God now and I believe there is a higher purpose as I go through this part of my life. I am not yet retiring from the game I love, and with the help of the best doctors in the Philippines and Singapore, I BELIEVE i can touch a basketball once more and return stronger.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people who have been helping me in this journey. I am truly blessed to be part of the San Miguel Family - Boss RSA's undying support and sincere care has been truly a Godsend. Boss Alfrancis Chua - my family and I appreciate you, thank you for everything.

Lastly, to all, as much as I greatly appreciate everyone's well-wishes and messages of support and prayers - for my children's well-being, in this social media and internet era, I am humbly asking everyone's respect for my family to go through this journey privately and discreetly as much as possible. Together with my family and loved ones, you are all my strength, inspiration and what drives me to be the best person I can ever be, physically, mentally, and spiritually. I will see everyone very, very soon.

Thank you and God bless.

For fans of LA Tenorio and the PBA, this news is undoubtedly devastating. However, Tenorio's determination and optimism are an inspiration to us all. We wish him all the best in his treatment and look forward to seeing him back on the court soon.

(via: PBA)