I must have watched Grease 50 times growing up, it was one of my favorite movies. "Sandy," played by Olivia Newton John, represented so many of us young girls in high school who were trying to figure out what social circle and group of friends to hang out with.
I never thought I would have the opportunity to meet Olivia Newton John in person. While hosting a local TV show, that dream came true about 7 years ago. I was nervous, but ready. I collected Barbie's as a young girl and had both the good girl Sandy and the bad girl Sandy in the box! She was incredibly kind during the interview and lived up to be everything I dreamed she would be as a child. She even took the time to take pictures and signed both of my Barbie's. It was just a thrill.
We talked about her breast cancer fight. She was strong, inspiring and loving for all of those going through the same journey. She fought breast cancer for over 30 years and unfortunately she loss the fight today. she was 73 years old.
John Easterling, her husband, posted the statement below on her Facebook page.
He asked “that everyone please respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.” The statement continued:
“Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer. Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made in her memory to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund (ONJFoundationFund.org).
“Olivia is survived by her husband John Easterling; daughter Chloe Lattanzi; sister Sarah Newton-John; brother Toby Newton-John; nieces and nephews Tottie, Fiona and Brett Goldsmith; Emerson, Charlie, Zac, Jeremy, Randall, and Pierz Newton-John; Jude Newton-Stock, Layla Lee; Kira and Tasha Edelstein; and Brin and Valerie Hall.”