Retired Police Officer Martin Franco Named Honorary Chair Relay for Life 2010

May 18, 2010

Los Angeles: From Saturday, May 22, 2010, at 9 a.m. to Sunday May 23, 2010, at 9 a.m., the El Rancho High School track in Pico Rivera will be home to 2010 Relay for Life.  The impact we can make together is much greater than what any of us could do alone.  At the event, participants will camp out overnight and take turns walking around the track.  It is 24 hours full of fun, hope, and remembrance.

Officer Martin Franco, 15-year resident of Pico Rivera, proudly serviced the County and the City of Los Angeles as a police officer for over 20 years.  Martin’s cancer journey began almost 7 years ago when he was 33-years-old.  He had just been awarded Officer of the Year for LAPD Rampart Division.  Suddenly, Martin was not feeling well.  He was extremely tired and had other symptoms; a physical was ordered.  His doctor said, “You are not in the age range for colon cancer and you have no family history, but if I word it right we can get you tested on Wednesday.”  By Friday, “we had heard the news that changed our lives.”

Although Martin is a 7 year survivor of colorectal cancer, his journey has not been easy.  He has had multiple surgeries with serious complications, radiation, and chemo-therapy.  He was only in remission for one year.

Martin has led a courageous battle against rectal cancer and despite his illness; he dedicates his time to educating others on cancer prevention.  He is truly an inspiration to those who meet him and he has an overwhelming “Fight on Spirit!”

His message for everyone is early detection and prevention, get tested and do not be afraid.  Make health your priority through proper diet and exercise.  In partnership with your doctors and family, you can fight on and survive.  Cancer is not a death sentence.  Also, together we can find a cure and make cancer a thing of the past.  Volunteer, share your story, and comfort someone.  Lastly, live life to the fullest and appreciate today.

Martin Franco and his family are part of the Pico Rivera Relay for Life as members of the Fight On!! Team.  The 2010 team will be lead by Teresa Sandoval (team captain) and Connie Franco (co-captain).  Martin is honored to be named as the Honorary Chair of the Pico Rivera Relay for Life 2010.

Join Team Fight On!!  Take some time between May 22 to May 23 at El Rancho High School, Pico Rivera to join the Franco family and others.  We need team members to walk from 10 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Sunday.  We especially invite any survivors to join us at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Register at www.relayforlife.org/picoriveraca

Make an on-line donation to Martin Franco – at www.relayforlife.org/picoriveraca Team Fight On!! Martin Franco.

For further information, please call LAPD Wellness Coordinator, Sergeant Mary Kite at 213-944-6819.