For Australia’s sweetheart Olivia Newtown-John, having a positive attitude and outlook on life has always been a part of her philosophy.
“Well, I’ve had quite a few challenges,” she says, “but I’m positive about those too.”
The beloved star was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, the disease returning in 2013 and 2017.
Though each battle has been trying, Olivia has made it her mission to stay positive, both for herself and others.
“I want to pass on something good and something valuable that’s going to help people.” Olivia on her philosophy of giving back.
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“You have to believe that you’ll be okay. I mean, there are times when you go, ‘oh gosh, what’s going to happen?'” she says.
“But at the bottom of all that, you have to believe you’ll be okay because your attitude is so important to your healing.”
It’s this outlook, and her desire to give back and help others, that has kept her deeply involved with the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre in Melbourne, and its annual walk.
“It’s very important,” she insists. “As you get older, you realise you’re going to be passing things on.
“I want to pass on something good and something valuable that’s going to help people.
“So, I think it’s a natural progression – part of being a human – to want to give back. It’s part of your evolution.”
Olivia’s Walk For Wellness is held every year on her birthday – this year’s event will coincide with her 73rd birthday on the 26th of September.
It’s a 5km walk designed to support cancer-thrivers and raise funds for the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre.
Olivia and her family at the start of the Walk for Wellness.
(Supplied)This year the event will be virtual and Olivia is encouraging everyone to participate and walk where they can, whether they’re in lockdown or not.
Participants can choose to do the 5km or their own distance and will also have the opportunity to enjoy virtual wellness events including yoga and mindfulness.
Top fundraisers will have the chance to virtually meet Olivia and be in the running for some excellent prizes.
If you’d like to join Olivia on her Walk For Wellness and help people with cancer to thrive, head to the Walk For Wellness website to register.
You can read the exclusive interview with Olivia in our October issue of The Australian Women’s Weekly – on sale now.
