Olivia's Journey

Olivia Newton-John was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993, that same weekend her father died from cancer. She underwent a partial mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Olivia has been cancer-free for more than 15 years. This is her story.

I guess this journey - these million steps towards a cure for cancer - started for me 15 years ago, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The diagnosis came the same weekend my father died of cancer, so you can imagine what a shock it was.

I learned very quickly how important it was to think positively. When the second friend I called with the news burst into tears, I thought ‘I don’t need this’. I had a sister and friends make the calls. That way I could focus on positive thoughts.

I underwent a partial mastectomy and breast reconstruction. It’s been a long journey, but now I am cancer-free. The whole experience has given me so much understanding and compassion I now want to help others going through the same journey.

More and more people are affected by cancer, and I believe we are a world in desperate need of healing. I’m committed to doing whatever I can. I’ve always believed if you go through anything, even something as difficult as cancer, something good can come out of it. And that’s exactly what the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre will be.

The Great Walk to Beijing 2008 is an important step in the journey to bring us closer to building my Cancer and Wellness Centre and ultimately finding a cure for cancer.

Click here to read more about the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre Appeal.

A million steps, 
to change the way the world treats cancer

The Great Walk to Beijing was a huge event in the lead-up to Beijing 2008 - stepping out to raise funds towards a cancer -free future. Our goal was to have Olivia, and each person walking the Great Wall alongside her, supported every step of the way.

Every $ still brings us a step closer to achieving the goal. Supporters may be fans of Olivia, or any of the other celebrities. Supporters may be people whose lives have been touched by cancer - themselves, family or friends or work colleagues. What all supporters have in common is that they make a difference for those affected by cancer - and help the journey towards wellness and a cancer-free future.

YOU can send Olivia and her team of Walkers' a message of support and sponsor the steps they took towards a cancer-free future for all. Simply click here to choose YOUR Walkers or make your general donation and send a message, to the Cancer Centre Appeal, and decide how much support you’ll give. Take the step - it’s that easy!