In the 1960s and 70s, she was a beloved child actress, known for her roles as the sweet, optimistic girl-next-door in classic family films. Born into a family of British entertainers, her career skyrocketed early after a breakthrough role alongside her famous father.

Signed by Walt Disney, she became one of the studio’s brightest young…

In the 1960s and 70s, she was a beloved child actress, known for her roles as the sweet, optimistic girl-next-door in classic family films. Born into a family of British entertainers, her career skyrocketed early after a breakthrough role alongside her famous father. Signed by Walt Disney, she became one of the studio’s brightest young stars, starring in hits like Pollyanna and The Parent Trap. But behind the scenes, she struggled with the pressure to maintain her innocent image, battling a hidden eating disorder as Hollywood demanded she stay forever youthful.

As she transitioned into adulthood, she sought to break free from the “Pollyanna” mold by taking on more mature roles and navigating complex personal relationships that often attracted public scrutiny. Despite these challenges, including a painful financial loss of her childhood earnings due to steep taxes, she remained committed to her craft. Her career shifted towards television and theater, where she found renewed creative fulfillment while raising her two sons and maintaining close family ties.

Then came a life-altering phone call on her birthday: a diagnosis of breast cancer in both breasts, a shocking revelation given she had no symptoms. The news interrupted her stable life but also marked the beginning of a courageous battle.

Undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, she faced the ordeal with grit and humor, supported by family and friends. Even as her illness forced her to pause her career, she remained focused on recovery and used her experience to advocate for regular screenings and awareness.

Today, she is a survivor, having embraced a quieter life centered around family, health, and reflection. She has penned a memoir sharing her story of childhood stardom, love, loss, and triumph over illness. Now in her late seventies, she enjoys the role of grandmother, cherishing each moment with her grandchildren and living with the wisdom that only such a journey can bring.