On June 21, actress Fran Drescher hosted an hourlong virtual cabaret fundraiser (which you can view above) to commemorate 20 years of living cancer-free. It was on this same day in 2000 that Drescher, now age 62, underwent a radical hysterectomy after being diagnosed with uterine cancer, CNN reports.
“Today is a very special day because it’s my 20-year anniversary of wellness,” Drescher told viewers. “And to celebrate, we at Cancer Schmancer decided to put on a cabaret fundraiser in support of my organization.”
Cancer Schmancer is the nonprofit Drescher started after her diagnosis. Its mission is to save lives through prevention, early detection and policy change.
Drescher always imagined throwing a huge party for the 20-year milestone, but the current coronavirus pandemic forced her to get a little creative. So she gathered some special guests—including Bette Midler, Patti LuPone and Rosie O’Donnell—to pretape performances and messages. The event was then livestreamed for viewers, who could also make donations.
Fans of The Nanny were also treated to a special appearance by Charles Shaughnessy—Drescher’s love interest in the series—who shared a special message for Drescher.
“I wanted to congratulate you on your 20 years of wellness,” he said. “I’m so proud of everything you’ve done….You turned your crisis, your own personal danger, of cancer into such a blessed opportunity for everyone else. Typical of your generosity and your big heart…. By doing that and turning the lemon of cancer into the lemonade of Cancer Schmancer, you have saved countless lives.”
View this post on InstagramHappy Anniversary to me! Watch the canaretconcert in support of cancerschancer.org GO!
Prior to the event, Drescher told CNN that adhering to an organic diet and limiting toxins in her Malibu home have played a major part in her current health status. She credits her healthy lifestyle with keeping her cancer-free.
“I treat myself as well and lovingly as possible,” she said “I don’t abuse myself. I honor my body all the time. I honor, I listen to it. I make sure that I appreciate what’s going on around me.”
Drescher is also aware of the importance of educating people amid the coronavirus pandemic. Cancer Schmancer’s website now includes a “Coronavirus Care for You” interview series, in which Drescher talks with several different doctors and medical experts about COVID-19 and other coronavirus-related topics, such as treatment and prevention.
“I got famous, then I got cancer, and now I live to talk about it,” Drescher has written on the Cancer Schmancer website. “Sometimes the best gifts come in the ugliest packages.”
For related coverage, read “Myths and Facts About Gynecologic Cancers” and “Two Years Cancer-Free—Christy Jefremow’s Story.”
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