The literary world was devastated when best-selling author Jackie Collins passed away. The 77-year-old writer, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, finally succumbed to the sickness on September 19. Although her condition was already known to her fans, some were still hoping that the 'Hollywood Wives' author would go into remission, as she had never given up in her fight against her illness.
However, it looks like Jackie Collins left a message for her fans who are also struggling with cancer. According to E! Online, the writer's final letter has been released on her personal website.
"As you may have recently heard, I revealed that I have been LIVING life to the fullest with Stage 4 Breast Cancer for the past six and a half years," Collins wrote. "With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, my message is this: Early detection can save lives! Get regular mammograms, and/or tell your loved ones too."
The author added that fans should always pay attention to their instincts.
"Even if you've been screened, and you have a gut feeling that something in your body is off, get a second opinion!" Collins wrote.
Jackie Collins also wanted to give her fans who are battling cancer hope in their future.
"Cancer does not have to be a death sentence!" she wrote in her letter. "You, or someone you love, can live an extraordinary life regardless. Be kind and be grateful. Never underestimate the power of your mind. Embrace what you love, and LIVE life to the fullest, as tomorrow is not promised to any of us."
Jackie Collins is the younger sister of 'Dynasty' actress Joan Collins, who starred in the film adaptation of Jackie's novels 'The Stud' and 'The Bitch.' Before her passing, Jackie Collins published 'The Santangelos,' the final novel in her 'Santangelo' book series which started with the 1981 bestseller 'Chances.'
