Delia was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1983 and underwent a mastectomy. She credits early detection with saving her life and volunteered for the American Cancer Society for 12 years following her diagnosis to educate others about the importance of early detection, including serving as the only Spanish speaking volunteer in her area. In 1999 she was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, a cancer which has no cure. She is currently participating in a clinical trial in an effort to find a cure for herself and others with the same type of cancer. She is a volunteer with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and actively engages with her elected officials on issues important to cancer patients and their families.