Jerrick Balanza's official statement
September 6, 2018 Tweet6981
Jerrick Balanza's NCAA Season 94 has come to a close. PHOTO | Michael Gatpandan
Arriba to my fellow Letranites and to all our friends and supporters!
It is with a heavy heart that I share with you this news: Recently, I have been diagnosed with a brain tumor and will have to undergo surgery as soon as possible.
This doubly saddens me because I will no longer be able to continue playing for the Knights, this NCAA Season 94.
I am very thankful for the support of my school - the Dominican priests, the lay officials, and the people who have showed love and care, including those on social media. It motivates me to keep faith, to be brave, to overcome this current challenge in my life.
I am filled with the Arriba Spirit: raising my prayers to God, asking Him to raise my body and soul in healing, and lifting the morale of our Letran community. As our coaches always say: Never give up! Never give in! I am grateful for those who are helping me, spiritually, financially, morally. My only request is for everyone – especially my fellow Letranites – to pray for me, to pray with me, for my healing and recovery and return to active play.
I am very happy, despite the challenges, especially to have my Alma Mater, Letran, the school whose name I have carried since high school, backing me up, encouraging me to get well, to have a speedy recovery. I will always remember this moment.
Salamat po, mahal kong Letran! Sobrang sarap maging Letranista! Siempre Arriba!
JERRICK BALANZA
(#7 Forward, Letran Knights)