Olivia Newton-John's Family Gathers to Say Goodbye to Rona
Olivia Newton-John's family has gathered to spend time with Rona, who was diagnosed with incurable brain cancer. Newton-John made the announcement of Rona's condition public yesterday, and now the family has gathered to be with Rona in what could be her final days.
"Olivia is beside herself and obviously the family is heartbroken, but they've all come together and are surrounding Rona with calmness, peace and love. Olivia is very spiritual, so the priority is to comfort Rona and just be there for her in these final days. They knew that the cancer had taken its toll, and there was nothing more that could be done," a source close to the family told Radar Online.
"It's all very sad, but one thing is certain – Rona feels the love. Olivia is there to make sure Rona is as comfortable as possible. There's sadness of course, but love and harmony is what Olivia has surrounded Rona with," the source added.
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Twenty years ago, Rona was the one providing support to Olivia, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent treatment, which included a partial mastectomy, and has been cancer-free for several years. Now she has canceled her new Las Vegas show in order to spend time with Rona.
"As a cancer 'thriver' myself, as many people are, I am very aware of the importance of love, support and family during this journey she [Rona] is about to begin. I want to thank everyone in advance for respecting our privacy during this difficult time," Newton-John told Entertainment Tonight.
Rona was married to Olivia's co-star from "Grease," Jeff Conaway, for five years. He passed away in 2011 due to complications from pneumonia as well as a degenerative brain disorder. Rona then married Brian Goldsmith, and they have a daughter, Tottie, together but are divorced.
Olivia Newton-John has been a passionate advocate for those battling cancer and even founded the Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Center in Melbourne, Australia.
