australian television information archive

Brave Belinda praised

BELINDA Emmett's brave fight against cancer has drawn admiration and wishes of support from the entertainment and medical worlds.

Her decision to speak publicly about her breast cancer has been credited with raising awareness of the disease among young women and possibly saving lives.

Emmett was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998, aged 24. She was cleared of the disease after intensive treatment, but was recently diagnosed with invasive secondary bone cancer.

But she has refused to accept the grim prognosis from doctors that it will kill her and has instead turned to natural therapies, exercise, meditation and the love of her family and friends, as well as conventional medicine, in a bid to beat it.

Her positive outlook has won her many fans and inspired other cancer sufferers to take control of their treatment.

"From the bottom of their hearts, they are proud of her and wish her the best," All Saints actor Tammy MacIntosh said on behalf of her fellow cast members and crew.

Emmett, 28, was on leave from All Saints to film her first feature film, The Nugget, when bone cancer was diagnosed.

MacIntosh knows the battle Emmett is waging.

She nursed her best friend, aged 32, until her death from breast cancer last year.

"Belinda seems to have a will that is indestructible and I really admire that," MacIntosh said.

"I really admire her psychology on this … she's living her life, not living life thinking I only have a certain amount of time."

Channel 10 newsreader Jessica Rowe supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

"I have read Belinda's story and think what an extraordinary inspirational young woman," Rowe said. "I think she has a message for everyone. Live every day to the fullest. Make every day count and to really focus on the things that matter.

"Her courage is inspirational. Everyone wishes her the very best."

MacIntosh and Rowe are both supporters of a new magazine, Pink Ribbon, which goes on sale on Wednesday with all proceeds going to breast cancer research.

It is published by the National Breast Cancer Foundation. NBCF general manager Sue Murray said Emmett's decision to speak about being diagnosed with breast cancer, and her support for research, was inspirational.

Emmett has also supported the annual Pink Ribbon ball, organised by the Sydney Breast Cancer Foundation.

Foundation member Deborah West said Emmett speaking out about breast cancer had increased awareness among young women.

"Increasing awareness will save lives," Ms West said. "She's been fantas tic from an awareness point of view. We send her a very strong message of support."

By Michelle Pountney
September 27, 2002
Herald Sun