MIAMI, Sept. 9, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Live Like Bella® Childhood Cancer Foundation announced today that longtime friend of the foundation and “Bella Believer,” Jose Fernandez formally joined the board of directors of the Live Like Bella® Childhood Cancer Foundation as an honorary board member.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150908/264668

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150908/264669

Shortly after Bella’s passing at the age of 10 in 2013, Live Like Bella® funded it’s first research trial at Oregon Health & Science University when Fernandez donated his cash award for being selected as the National League’s 2013 Rookie of the Year.  Now Jose will join the board of directors of Live Like Bella® and will be directly involved in helping families with children battling cancer. “Ever since I heard Bella’s story and met her family, I have supported the foundation.  I am very happy to now be part of the team that makes important decisions on childhood cancer research and helps cancer families as a Live Like Bella® board member,” said Jose Fernandez.  Raymond Rodriguez-Torres, chairman of the foundation and Bella’s father said, “We are thrilled that Jose has decided to join us as a board member.  Childhood cancer is the number one cause of death by disease in children and unfortunately each day in the United States 7 children die of cancer, yet we hear little of this sad statistic.  Jose shares our passion to help find a cure for childhood cancer.  With his help I am certain that we will continue to raise awareness of Pediatric cancer and undoubtedly continue to accelerate innovation for childhood cancer research.”

“We are so excited and are so grateful to Jose for his support! This announcement could not be timelier as it comes during the month of September, which is national childhood cancer awareness month. The gold ribbon represents childhood cancer. With Jose and Live Like Bella® working together we look forward to creating more and more awareness on a national and international level,” said Shannah Rodriguez-Torres, Vice Chair of Live Like Bella® and Bella’s mother. 

About Live Like Bella®:
Live Like Bella® was founded in June 2013 in memory of Bella Rodriguez-Torres, who passed away at the tender age of 10 from Rhabdomyosarcoma, an aggressive childhood cancer. In her six-year battle she inspired millions to #LiveLikeBella and we are dedicated to finding a cure for pediatric cancer by funding innovative pediatric cancer research. Our Foundation also provides support for families with children currently in treatment and provides memorial assistance for families who have lost a child to cancer. For more information visit www.LiveLikeBella.org

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Jessica DeQuesada, 786- 505-3914

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