Fans all over the world have reached out to legendary Grease actress Olivia Newton-John today, following the announcement that the breast cancer she so bravely fought 25 years ago has returned.
The 68-year-old confirmed the news in a statement on her official Facebook page, just says after revealing that she was suffering with ‘severe back pain’.
The statement explained that Olivia was ‘reluctantly’ postponing a series of concerts scheduled for June, in the US and Canada.
“The back pain that initially caused her to postpone the first half of her concert tour, has turned out to be breast cancer that has metastasized to the sacrum,” a spokesperson wrote.
It was revealed that the mother-of-one will shortly be undergoing a course of photo radiation therapy, to treat the disease.
“I decided on my direction of therapies after consultation with my doctors and natural therapists, and the medical team at my Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre in Melbourne, Australia,” she added, herself.
As you can imagine, Olivia’s page was flooded with messages of love and support from her legion of fans.
“I am sorry you have joined our club, and I wish you the best,” wrote one woman also suffering with metastatic breast cancer.
Elsewhere, another fan urged Olivia to be positive: “This is not a death sentence. My wife has had almost the same thing happen to her. 1991, then 2012. 30 radiation treatments did the trick this time. She is now cancer-free for five years.”
This is the second time that Olivia has had to fight cancer. She was previously diagnosed with the illness back in 1992, and underwent chemotherapy as well as a partial mastectomy.
After recovering, the actress became an advocate for breast cancer awareness, setting up her research centre and lending her support to a breast cancer documentary, 1 a Minute.
Following Olivia’s announcement yesterday evening, her daughter Chloe Lattanzi took to social media to ask for prayers and support.
“I love you, Mama. Miss you so much. Will all of you send healing prayers for my Mama’s back, please,” wrote the 31-year-old.
“I believe in the power of positive thinking and energy. Love you all.”
Olivia is in our thoughts today, and we’re wishing her the very best of luck with the journey to recovery that lies ahead.
