The famous actress and activist, Jane Fonda, 84, announced that she is battling non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, and is undergoing chemotherapy treatment. She shared the news on her Instagram account where she has almost two million followers.
“So, my dear friends, I have something personal I want to share. I’ve been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and have started chemo treatments,” Fonda said in the post. “This is a very treatable cancer. 80% of people survive, so I feel very lucky.”
She says she is grateful that her cancer is treatable and her chances of survival are very good.
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma affects the immune system. She requires six months of chemotherapy.
Fonda, determined to continue her work raising awareness of environmental issues, says she won’t let her treatment and diagnosis stop her. She claims she was inspired by climate activist Greta Thunberg.
“Cancer is a teacher and I’m paying attention to the lessons it holds for me,” Fonda wrote. “One thing it’s shown me already is the importance of community. Of growing and deepening one’s community so that we are not alone. And the cancer, along with my age — almost 85 — definitely teaches the importance of adapting to new realities.”
Lily Tomlin praised her friend and co-star for her positive attitude. The two worked together for seven seasons in the popular sitcom Grace and Frankie on Netflix.
“She’s very forthright and talkative about what’s going on with her in all respects — she’s indomitable,” Tomlin told Entertainment Weekly and People Magazine.
