Eva Longoria Becomes National Spokesperson for Latino Children With Cancer

Eva Longoria Becomes National Spokesperson for Latino Children With Cancer

LOS ANGELES, March 22 /PRNewswire/ -- EVA LONGORIA, who stars in the popular primetime television series, Desperate Housewives, has joined Padres Contra El Cancer (PADRES) as the non-profit organization's first national spokesperson.

"Eva's compassion, her genuine charisma, and her willingness to embrace our mission and join our efforts will touch thousands of lives," says Michael Velazquez, CEO, PADRES, a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life for Latino children with cancer and their families. "We are grateful for her extraordinary commitment of time and talent as a national representative for our children and families."

Longoria, with her hard-to-resist charm, has become recognizable as the star of ABC's Desperate Housewives, which premiered this season. Portraying the glamorous former runway model Gabrielle Solis, Longoria was recently voted by Variety as one of the "Ten New Faces to Watch" this Fall.

As the national spokesperson for PADRES, the Mexican-American actress will be honored during the organization's 20th Anniversary Gala, EL SUENO DE ESPERANZA, on March 31, 2005 at the Skirball Cultural Center.

Longoria, who has graced numerous magazine covers and appeared on a variety of talk-shows, says she would like to use her celebrity status to create a greater awareness and understanding for the plight of Latino children living with cancer. "I've experienced cancer with older relatives and I've seen their pain and suffering," says Longoria. "I can only imagine how hard it must be for a child. Latino families, because of social, economic and cultural barriers don't always have access to all the resources available. That's what attracted me to PADRES. Together, we can break those barriers. No child or family should endure this difficult journey alone."

Longoria, who grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, recently met with PADRES' patients and families and spoke of her passion for helping these children. She also commented on how the children have already left an indelible impression on her. "Being with these children has been such a blessing," Longoria says. "They have so much energy and enthusiasm. They remind me of the importance of taking life day by day and to not take anything for granted."

"My wish is for PADRES to become a nationally recognized organization. I also want to see us attract sponsors, donations and support from all communities, not only our own. All children, regardless of race, gender, national origin, or ethnicity, merit and deserve our unconditional love and compassion," Longoria says. "When these children see me on TV, I want them to know that I am part of an organization devoted just to them. I want them to know that I will never give up the fight to help them defeat cancer."

ABOUT PADRES CONTRA EL CANCER (parents against cancer)

Founded in 1985, Padres Contra El Cancer (PADRES) is the only Latino organization of its kind in the United States to bring together children, families, healthcare professionals and community leaders to promote a comprehensive understanding of childhood cancer and other blood disorders. The success of PADRES' unique and inclusive program model is premised upon a health and education curriculum designed to be culturally-relevant, family-centered and community-based. All 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.

Celebrating 20 years of service to its community, PADRES has served 3,200 families and more than 16,000 extended family members residing in the Southern California region.

Source: Padres Contra El Cancer

CONTACT: Brenda Alcazar of Padres Contra El Cancer, +1-818-254-0007, balcazar@padrescontraelcancer.net

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