Shannen Doherty: Embracing Life Amidst Stage 4 Cancer Battle
In the face of stage 4 cancer spreading to her bones, actress Shannen Doherty, renowned for her role as Brenda Walsh in the 1990s hit 90210, remains resolute, declaring that her best days are still ahead. In an interview with People magazine, the 52-year-old expressed optimism and a determination to continue living, loving, creating, and striving for positive change despite her ongoing battle with the disease since her initial diagnosis in 2015.
“I’m not done with living. I’m not done with loving. I’m not done with creating. I’m not done with hopefully changing things for the better,” she asserted. “I’m just not — I’m not done.”
Doherty, who previously announced remission in 2017 on Instagram, revealed in subsequent years that the cancer had returned. In 2020, she disclosed having stage 4 cancer. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledged the existential questions that arise with such a diagnosis and emphasized the search for a greater purpose in life.
“When you ask yourself, ‘Why me? Why did I get cancer?’ and then ‘Why did my cancer come back? Why am I stage 4?,’ that leads you to look for the bigger purpose in life,” Doherty shared with the magazine.
The actress is determined to challenge misconceptions about terminal cancer, advocating for the capability of individuals with such diagnoses to lead fulfilling lives. She highlighted the importance of dispelling stereotypes that can limit the opportunities and perspectives of those facing terminal illnesses.
“People just assume that it means you can’t walk, you can’t eat, you can’t work. They put you out to pasture at a very early age —‘You’re done, you’re retired,’ and we’re not,” she explained. “We’re vibrant, and we have such a different outlook on life. We are people who want to work and embrace life and keep moving forward.”
In addition to sharing her insights on life and illness, Doherty will launch a memoir-style podcast titled “Let’s Be Clear with Shannen Doherty” on December 7, available on iHeartRadio. The podcast is expected to delve into various aspects of her life, including her career, friendships, personal relationships, and her ongoing battle with cancer.
Expressing gratitude for each day, Doherty emphasized her belief in the power of faith, prayer, and connection to a higher power as sources of strength. As she navigates her journey, she remains hopeful, declaring, “My greatest memory is yet to come.”
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