Olivia and David, children of Blanca Fernández Ochoa, participated this week in the program '¡De viernes!' to remember their mother six years after her death. The Fernández Ochoa family thus returns to the media spotlight, focusing on the athlete's memory and the importance of mental health in sports.
Lola Fernández Ochoa highlights the role of the Blanca Foundation
Lola Fernández Ochoa intervened this Saturday on the program 'Fiesta' and spoke exclusively to the cameras. During her appearance, she highlighted Blanca's relationship with her children and the work of the foundation that bears her name. Lola assured that Blanca would be proud of her children and the work of the Blanca Foundation, which supports athletes and raises awareness about mental illnesses.
"If my sister were alive, she would be proud of her children, with whom she has a great relationship, and also of the Blanca Foundation, which she champions to support athletes and raise awareness about mental illness" - Lola Fernández Ochoa
The Impact of Mental Health in Sports
Lola Fernández Ochoa explained that at first she found it difficult to talk about her sister's situation, but over time she has managed to remember her with a smile. She acknowledged the difficulty of addressing these issues publicly, especially when they affect close individuals. The family insists on the importance of talking, raising awareness, and normalizing mental health in sports and society.
"At first, it's hard to talk about what's happening, about what that person is going through, but you have to talk about it even though it's very difficult at first because you feel a little ashamed that someone you know has made that decision, but these are decisions that are made and there's nothing we can do"
Lola also reflected on the role of public figures like Simone Biles, Iniesta, or Ricky Rubio, who have helped raise awareness about mental health in sports. **She pointed out that Blanca's case was a significant trigger for these issues to start being openly discussed**.
"Blanca was a very important trigger, and thanks to that, we've had a few years now where mental health is starting to be discussed. And what we have to do is that: talk, make visible, raise awareness, and normalize"
Family Recognition and Self-Criticism
Lola Fernández Ochoa stated that she helped her sister as much as she could, although she acknowledged that perhaps more psychological support would have been necessary. The family maintains its commitment to the prevention and awareness of mental health, especially among athletes and young people.