Iconic ’80s Teen Star Fights Cancer on a Remote Farm—See Her at 58

This veteran actress didn’t plan on an acting career, but one unexpected role on a popular TV show changed her life. Now, in her late fifties, she’s overcome major challenges and is living happily today. Here’s a look at her inspiring journey and how she’s doing now.

Known for playing Natalie Green on *The Facts of Life* (1979–1988), she was discovered as a teenager. Years later, health issues forced her to leave Hollywood, but now, at 58, she’s thriving once again.

Source: Getty Images

In a 2013 article, the actress shared about her younger years, saying, “Have I ever mentioned performing or wanting to act? No, sir.”

She explained, “If someone had asked what I wanted to be, I’d have probably said a doctor, since I wanted to help people and had a talent for it.”

Source: Getty Images

Her acting journey happened by chance. In the summer of 1979, just before ninth grade, she and some classmates were pulled from class to meet TV producers creating a new sitcom set in a girls’ school.

Source: Getty Images

The producers, including actress Charlotte Rae, were casting for The Facts of Life and thought she’d be perfect for a role. Rae found her “charming and funny,” suggesting a part be created for her.

Source: Getty Images

Her role on The Facts of Life made her a household name. She continued acting after the show and voiced Velma in What’s New, Scooby-Doo? for over a decade.

Source: Getty Images

But in 2012, her life took a turn. One morning, she felt unusually tired during a walk. She called her friend Helen Hunt for help. After a doctor’s visit, tests revealed troubling news: she had breast cancer.

Source: Getty Images

For the next five years, she endured a “siege,” facing surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation. Known for her optimism, she admitted feeling worn down by the recurring cancer.

“I kept waiting for things to get better, but they didn’t,” she said. “I couldn’t control or fix any of it.”

Seeking peace, she left Hollywood for a quiet life in the country. She moved to a farm owned by friends Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, where she found a sense of family.

The farm kept her busy, from stacking shelves to feeding chickens and even caring for goats. Her friends often saw her helping around the property, finding comfort in the farm work.

Source: Getty Images

In 2017, she was declared cancer-free and expressed gratitude for her parents and close friends who supported her through it all.

With her health restored, she returned to Hollywood, reconnecting with her fans and eager for new roles. She felt ready to work again, saying, “I think I’m a good actress, and I have a lot to give.”

At 58, she remains single and child-free, having dedicated herself to her career. Though she enjoys seeing her friends’ families, she cherishes the close relationships in her life.

Source: Getty Images

She’s open to finding love, but with a strong network of loved ones, she feels fulfilled, knowing she can lean on others and support them in return.

Now in her late fifties, she has embraced aging naturally. Feeling more beautiful than in her youth, she avoids cosmetic fixes, humorously singing Let It Go from Frozen when tempted.

As she nears sixty, she is living life fully, surrounded by friends, pursuing her passions, and looking forward to what’s next. Her journey shows that love, humor, and resilience can guide us through even the hardest times, making every chapter meaningful.

Officer Sacrifices Himself To Save Wife From Crash, A Few Weeks Later This Miracle Happens

While fixing a dirt bike on the side of the road on August 1, Lucas and Nicole Shoffner, two off-duty deputies from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, were hit by a car. Raymond Surber, a deputy of the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office, was operating the car. Through Facebook, the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office has asked for prayers for the injured cops.

Matt Fagiana, a former Loudon County policeman, revealed that Lucas bravely saved Nicole by pushing her aside, despite suffering serious injuries. Fagiana said, “You got this Lucas, and we are behind you and Nicole every step of the way,” characterizing Lucas as “kind, loyal, funny, and resilient.”

Lucas has severe brain injuries and is in a medically induced coma at the UT Medical Center’s Transplant Intensive Care Unit. Lucas’s former employer, the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office, offered their support by stating, “Lucas, everyone at LCSO is pulling for you!”


Nicole announced on Instagram that Lucas is moving out of critical care after 40 days, which is a positive development. “We begin our chapter of healing today,” she declared. The narrative highlights the bravery and sacrifices made by law enforcement.

Related Posts

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*