The Grace and Frankie actress posted a selfie of herself on Friday afternoon, Sept. 2, accompanied by a lengthy message to her fans. “So, my dear friends,” she addressed them, adding, “I have something personal I want to share.” She went on to assure everyone that she feels “very lucky,” as the type of cancer she’s been diagnosed with—non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma—is “very treatable” with a survival rate of 80 percent, and she’s already begun chemo treatments. “I’m also lucky because I have health insurance and access to the best doctors and treatments. I realize, and it’s painful, that I am privileged in this,” she continued. “Almost every family in America has had to deal with cancer at one time or another and far too many don’t have access to the quality health care I am receiving and this is not right,” Fonda, who has been an activist for decades, also used the opportunity to address inequities in the American healthcare system. “We also need to be talking much more not just about cures but about causes so we can eliminate them. For example, people need to know that fossil fuels cause cancer. So do pesticides, many of which are fossil fuel-based, like mine.” The 9 to 5 star said that so far, she’s handling her treatments—which will last for six months—well, and promised that they would not interfere with her climate activism. “Cancer is a teacher and I’m paying attention to the lessons it holds for me. 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.” Fonda also took a moment to encourage her followers to prepare for the upcoming midterm elections. “We’re living through the most consequential time in human history because what we do or don’t do right now will determine what kind of future there will be and I will not allow cancer to keep me from doing all I can, using every tool in my toolbox and that very much includes continuing to build this Fire Drill Fridays community and finding new ways to use our collective strength to make change.” “The midterms are looming, and they are beyond consequential so you can count on me to be right there together with you as we grow our army of climate champions.” Several of her Hollywood colleagues sent their love and support in the comments. “Handling this with grace, intelligence and selflessness, as always. Holding you in our hearts. ❤️,” Katie Couric wrote. “Wishing you more strength than you need and more love than you can bear. Call me if you need anything. Always here. Always,” Alyssa Milano said. We’re glad to see she’s keeping a positive attitude through this unfortunate period in her life and are wishing her the best in her recovery! More News:
Jason Aldean’s Publicity Firm Parts Ways With Him Following Wife’s Controversial Statements
Rascal Flatts’ Gary LeVox Sings ‘Life is a Highway’ While Polishing Platinum Record
News Anchor Shares Moment She Swallowed a Fly on Air in Case You ‘Need A Laugh’
