Olivia Newton-John's life-saving contributions to cancer care and research will not be forgotten after a remarkable journey that inspired cancer survivors around the world.
The Grease star-turned activist fought a public battle with breast cancer after her first diagnosis in 1992, and quickly became an advocate for cancer awareness and research.
Newton-John's battle with cancer, including a mastectomy, radiation therapy, and a breast reconstruction, inspired her to create the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre in Melbourne.
The Centre not only treats cancer but also carries out breakthrough research and clinical trials.
"With more and more people affected by cancer every day, I believe we are in a world desperate for healing, and I'm committed to doing whatever I can to help," Newton-John shared on the Centre's website.
"I also believe that when you go through something difficult, even something as dramatic as cancer, that something positive will come of it."
"And that's exactly what the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre (ONJ Centre) is - a positive healing Centre to support people on their cancer journey."
In 2017, the singer shared that the breast cancer had returned and spread to her back, and she was forced to postpone tours to complete radiation and natural wellness therapies.
"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 said at the time.
The Centre, part of Austin Health, shared their own tribute to the star, writing that they will continue to honour her legacy.
"The ONJ Centre was her dream, and we are proud of everything we achieved together," they shared on Facebook.
"Olivia touched the lives of many people across Australia and the world, but none more so than our cancer services staff and patients at the Olivia Newton-John Centre, who she encouraged, inspired and supported every day," they wrote on Facebook.
As news of Olivia Newton-John's passing travelled across the world this morning, social media was awash with outpours of love for the star.
"Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer," Newton-John's husband John Easterling wrote on Facebook.
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"Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer," he continued.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews shared a tribute to the star's impact on cancer research in the state.
"Her generosity through the ONJ Cancer Wellness and Research Centre has saved lives, and her advocacy has given Victorians hope as they battle cancer," Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews shared on twitter.
"Olivia Newton-John was one in a million," he wrote.
"She gave the world her music and movies - but for Victorians she was so much more."
Rosie Bensley
Illawarra Mercury trainee journalist and newest recruit.
Illawarra Mercury trainee journalist and newest recruit.
