Olivia Newton-John “in shock” over sudden loss
Olivia Newton-John is mourning the loss of her beloved cancer nurse.
The Grease star took to Instagram to announce that a nurse at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, died in April.
Emma Coleman worked closely with the star, and Newton-John says her heart is “still in shock”.
“My heart is still in shock and so saddened to learn of the sudden loss of the very special Emma Cohen,” the 72-year-old wrote.
“Emma took care of me at a very vulnerable time in my life when I was a patient on her unit at the @onjcancercentre in 2018.”
“She ensured my stay was safe and comfortable, always had practical advice for me, showed strong leadership skills and had a great sense of humour,” the actress revealed.
“She was a bright, energetic and powerful woman with a huge future ahead of her, and we connected on our mission to help patients on their cancer journey.
“Emma had such a generous spirit and a warm and loving heart – I will miss seeing her lovely face at the Centre and send my love and deepest condolences to her friends and family.”
The star did not reveal what caused her friend’s death, however the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) said she passed away after a “short illness” in a Facebook post.
“It is with great sadness that we inform our members, and the wider nursing community, that CNSA Board Director Emma Cohen passed away after a short illness on Friday 9 April,” they wrote.
“Emma was a vibrant and passionate leader, and a fierce and intelligent advocate for the cancer nursing workforce, and her patients. Her loss has left a huge gap in our community, and in our hearts.”
The post went on to say: “We will be ensuring the appropriate recognition of Emma’s contribution to cancer control and to the Society in due time, and share our condolences on behalf of the Board with her family.
“We send all of those who worked with, studied with, and collaborated with Emma our deepest and heartfelt sympathies.”
Newton-John was diagnosed with cancer in 1992, but revealed she overcame the disease in 2013.
Sadly, in May of 2017 the actress and singer revealed the cancer had metastasised and spread to her bones.
Image: Instagram