She was admired and respected by KABB-TV viewers, and adored even more by those who actually knew her
Thirty-seven-year-old Karen Martinez, who co-anchored the 9 o'clock news has succumbed to breast cancer.
Friend and co-worker Sylvia Rincon said on the Jack Riccardi show on 550 KTSA that Martinez leaves behind three children.
"She had three children ages 7, 16 and 18, and her husband, Joseph and her parents. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers," said Rincon.
Martinez was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2009, but she continued to anchor when she could.
"She was in remission for a very brief time," said Rincon.
Martinez also continued to raise awareness about cancer and recently put together a major fundraiser, even while she was gravely ill.
Rincon says Martinez maintained a sense of humor and put up a brave fight 'til the end and did her best to mask the pain.
"The way you see her in the pictures that we have is what she looked like up until the very last days that she was here. She was defiant," said Rincon.
Funeral services are pending.
photos: foxsanantonio.com; mysanantonio.com
