The sister of Australian singer Olivia Newton-John has been diagnosed with brain cancer. Herself a survivor of breast cancer, Olivia, 64, has cancelled upcoming shows in Las Vegas to be with her sibling Rona, who is 69. Olivia confirmed the "very sad" news in statement to Entertainment Tonight. "In light of this news, I have decided to postpone my forthcoming Las Vegas residency to spend time with her and our family," the star wrote.
"As a cancer 'thriver' myself, as many people are, I am very aware of the importance of love, support and family during this journey she is about to begin." Rona Newton-John is also an actress. She was married to Olivia's Grease co-star Jeff Conaway – Kenickie in the classic film – for five years. The couple have one son, Emerson, now 38. Last year, Olivia reunited with Grease's leading man John Travolta after nearly 35 years of musical absence. The duo recorded a Christmas album and donated proceeds to causes close to their hearts.
The actress, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, gave her share of the money to her eponymous Cancer and Wellness foundation.
Olivia, who is now in full remission from cancer, lives with her husband John Easterling in Florida. She has a daughter, Chloe Rose Lattanzi, 27, from her relationship with her first husband, actor Matt Lattanzi.