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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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One risk factor for heart disease is triglycerides. As you can see, triglycerides are created when you eat fat that is not immediately needed. Your blood and fat cells contain them. Fatty acids found in omega-3-enriched eggs lower blood triglycerides. However, take note that the eggs are enhanced with omega-3, or from pasture-fed chicken.
Eggs can reduce the risk of breast cancer, according to a Harvard University study. When eggs were consumed during adolescence, this was most advantageous. A subsequent study, however, revealed that women who ate at least six eggs per week had a 44% lower risk of breast cancer than those who ate fewer. Eggs include choline, which also lowers the risk of breast cancer.
125.5 mg of choline, or almost ¼ of your daily requirement, are found in an egg. In addition to being vital for the brain, choline is helpful for the heart. Choline aids in mood and memory regulation. Research has demonstrated that it supports cognitive processes like verbal and visual memory. Choline helps to create the membranes that envelop your cells. Choline is also necessary for the development of the baby’s brain throughout pregnancy and lactation.
Eggs are a rich source of minerals including iron, zinc, and phosphorus, which are essential for a healthy body. Zinc converts food into energy and supports a healthy immune system. Women need a lot of iron because of menstruation, but it’s necessary for many other purposes. Eggs are also a good source of selenium and iodine, which are needed to produce thyroid hormones.
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