Olivia's Cancer Journey
- Olivia Newton-John’s new foundation will “fund the discovery of kinder therapies and advocate for more effective ways to prevent, treat and cure all cancers.”
- Newton-John was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, then again in 2013, and then for a third time in 2017; she is currently battling stage four metastatic breast cancer.
- Olivia has taken an integrative care approach to combatting the disease.
Sharing Her Journey On Film
When Newton-John got the heartbreaking news that she had stage four metastatic breast cancer, she called it "overwhelming. It was a feeling of dread, terror, the unknown."
She says in the video, "I am probably one of those people who’s living beyond cancer, living beyond probably what people expected to happen.”
She goes on to say: "I knew immediately something was wrong. I had a mammogram. The mammogram was benign and I had a needle biopsy that was also benign… I don’t say this to scare women, but you have to just trust your instincts.” Following a surgical biopsy, she found out her cancer had returned.
Trust Your Instincts & Advocate For Yourself
The actress wisely urges women to trust their gut. You know if something feels off to you, better than anyone else can.
It's important to speak up and advocate for yourself if you feel like your doctor isn't listening, or you aren't getting a proper diagnosis. You can always seek a second opinion or a third, or a fourth, for that matter if you're aren't getting the answers that line up with what you feel in your body.
Integrative Care Approach
Newton-John has pursued an integrative care approach of plant-based and meditation-based treatments. She has pursued a number of different therapies, including acupuncture, massage, use of cannabis, and other alternative therapies.
She has spoken out about the restorative power of plants throughout her cancer journey, saying, "I have seen the incredible beauty of the plants and their healing abilities… if I hadn’t had that experience, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you about kinder therapies… your body wants to heal itself."
In addition, Newtown-John has opted for conventional treatment. When facing a breast cancer diagnosis, as Olivia is, you should speak with your doctor about what treatment options suit you best.
Newton-John's Current Status
In January of this year, the Aussie announced that her tumors were shrinking. “My tumours are receding or they’re going away or they’re staying the same, on a stage 4 metastatic breast cancer that’s pretty amazing,” the actress said.
We are cheering her on as she continues to battle and are forever impressed by her fortitude and bravery.
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