Almost a year to the day of the death of his Texas Tornados bandmate Doug Sahm, Tex-Mex pioneer Freddy Fender has been diagnosed with the viral liver infection Hepatitis C and related kidney complications. Though only diagnosed this week, Fender's Hepatitis C had been in effect for some time and eaten away so much of his liver that the rest of his body has not been functioning properly, leading to the damaged kidneys.

According to spokesperson Kirt Webster, Fender -- born Baldemar Huerta -- is currently undergoing dialysis treatments and is being evaluated for a liver transplant. Webster said Fender needs both kidneys and a liver transplant, but that his chances of survival are less if a kidney transplant comes first because the new kidney would be overworked. Although Fender has been put on a list for a liver transplant, it is not known how long it will take for a donor organ to become available. "[Country singer] Chris Ledoux went through this and it took about a month and a half to find one, so hopefully we'll find one within that time frame," said Webster.

In the meantime, Fender is undergoing dialysis for his damaged kidneys every other day, primarily at home in Corpus Christi, Tex. Webster said the rocker-balladeer, best known for his hits "Wasted Days and Wasted Nights" and "Before the Next Teardrop Falls," will continue to perform select bookings.

"He's a road warrior," said Webster, noting that Fender remains in positive spirits. "He says he's had a great life, and he's just hopeful than an organ or organ donor will come through so he'll get to live and sing a little bit longer."

Earlier this month, the State of Texas declared Nov. 4 "Freddy Fender Day" in recognition of the five $5,000 college scholarships he gives each year to B and C students. Explains Webster: "Freddy says that the A students get everything they want, so he's going to take care of the rest of them."

RICHARD SKANSE
(November 22, 2000)