DIAGNOSED with a chink in his armor, the PBA’s “Ironman” is facing the biggest battle of his life.
Ginebra veteran star LA Tenorio yesterday revealed he is fighting the Big C — the real reason why his record of playing 744 straight games ended in the Kings’ 112-107 victory over Meralco last March 1.
The 5-foot-9 playmaker was later ruled out of the season-ending Governors’ Cup due to an “aggravated sports hernia injury that required surgery” last March 8.
It turned out worse.
“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,” Tenorio said in a statement posted on the pro league’s website.
“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,” he added.
Tenorio, 38, who before seeing the end to his streak of not missing matches since being tabbed fourth overall by San Miguel Beer in the 2006 draft, apologized for initially keeping his health condition a secret.
“I would like to issue a statement about my health status by firstly apologizing to my teammates, some coaches, the PBA, the fans, the media and even some friends. As most of you are aware I have been nursing a minor injury since the finals last January. I used that as the reason for my sudden absence. My sincerest apologies to all,” Tenorio said.
“With my profession in sports tied to health and entertainment, it will be very difficult to keep the real reason a secret any longer and will only lead to unnecessary gossip, fake news and misinterpretations.”
An eight-time champion, four-time finals MVP, and one-time Best Player of the Conference winner, Tenorio said he is hoping he could play anew in the future.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
