Ovarian cancer survivor’s incredible account of her experience at this year’s Oscars as a guest of son Tom Heller, executive producer of the award-winning film, Precious.

Dearest Sisters:

First, thank you from the bottom of my heart for the incredible sendoff to the Oscars. Wore teal beaded bracelets and my heart on my sleeve in honor of all of us battling this disease. As we know, for all of the desperately low moments, there are incredible highs–sometimes they’re simple like looking around at loving family or nature’s gifts– or in this case, a once-in-a-lifetime, over-the-top-I-never-expected-this-experience. Attending the Oscars with my son and husband was the thrill of a lifetime; beyond expectations. With this under my belt, I have enough memories to carry me through whatever is ahead. I feel almost lucky.

A couple of anecdotes: it’s a long story but we were very well positioned with the broadcast media on the red carpet and you may have seen me on camera (according to lots of friends and family) several times on E! and ABC. I was wearing a burnished gold coat with gold scarf. Looked like a fat Oscar.  I know some of you were looking for me. Inside, we were seated with other producer types in the main audience–not with “Precious” nominees up front.

George Clooney kissed me.

And best for last: Kathy Bates was very accessible and friendly on the Red Carpet. After she chatted with my husband and son about The Blind Side I told her I was an ovarian cancer  survivor. She called me a “sister.” I told her about the women of the ACOR list who were there with me and that I was wearing a wig. She asked if I was actively battling the disease and when I replied “yes”, she said “then let me give you a big hug”, which she did. That was for YOU, LADIES.

Of course we were all thrilled about the Precious awards. The film also took all the big awards at the Independent Spirit Awards the night before. Not sure how I held up; on my feet for hours, grand stairways, long distances–thank heaven for Aleve. Now it’s back to reality.

Tomorrow more chemo.

Thanks again for your love and support.

Love,
Peggy