Sergio Peris-Mencheta, the Spanish actor and director known for his resilience, has made headlines following his courageous battle with leukemia. After undergoing extensive treatment including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and most recently, a bone marrow transplant, Peris-Mencheta is now seeing improvements and embracing life to its fullest.
Recently spotted at the Pilar Bardem Auditorium in Madrid with his wife Marta Solaz and their two sons, Olmo and Río, Peris-Mencheta was visibly optimistic as he attended his own theatrical production, '14.4.' This marked the first opportunity he had to be present for his work after being absent during its premiere due to his treatments.
Despite the challenges he has faced, including taking up to 20 medication pills daily, Peris-Mencheta shared insights about his recovery process. "I'm improving, albeit like a sawtooth pattern—one day I'm well, the next I'm slightly worse, and then I regain some strength, only to take steps backward afterwards," he explained to Europa Press. He added, "It’s been tough; I can't do many things and need companionship for tasks I once managed alone. Climbing stairs feels particularly challenging."
Reflecting on his newfound perspectives due to his illness, he stated, "I know this is how it is, and the word is acceptance. I have become aware of my limitations now, but I cherish my life immensely. I'd never trade my current self for the one I was before I got sick, without question.” His words resonate with anyone who has faced life-altering challenges and come out with renewed clarity.
Peris-Mencheta's family has provided him with unwavering support throughout his ordeal. He expressed his gratitude, stating, "It’s my family—Marta, Olmo, and Río, along with our dog Senda—who have been my pillars during this phase of my life. We’ve decided to stay longer here due to the current conditions in Los Angeles, especially with the wildfires and air quality. I simply can’t afford to expose myself to such risks at this stage.”
Looking to the future, Peris-Mencheta is far from idle; instead, he's embracing what he calls his most prolific year yet. He’s preparing to direct two theatrical productions and is working on a film where he will portray a killer—an ironic nod to his physical appearance. To complement this, he’s authored a book, which he reveals has been therapeutic for him throughout this process.
His gratitude is not just for surviving, but for the transformation he has undergone. "It's not so much about what one learns through hardship as it is about who you've become after. I can't say it was worth the suffering, but I sure wouldn’t revert to my previous self," he stated.
Acknowledging the physical pain and limitations following his treatments, Peris-Mencheta is determined to continue working but accepts the need for time to adjust to the changes post-recovery. He mentions his long-term plans which include possibly relocating permanently to Spain with his family, as they long for familiarity and comfort.
This upcoming year marks not just recovery but also renewal. For Sergio Peris-Mencheta, it seems, the battle against leukemia has reinforced his spirit and reignited his passion for storytelling through his artistic endeavors.