Friends star Lauren Tom has shared that her 25-year-old daughter Ellie has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
The actor, best known for playing Ross’s girlfriend Julie on the hit sitcom, made the announcement on Instagram on Sunday.
Tom's Instagram announcement
Tom, 64, posted a series of pictures of Ellie, the daughter she shares with actor husband Curt Kaplan, hugging their dog. “I wanted to share some tough news today…” wrote the Futurama and King of the Hill voice actor. “This is my beautiful daughter, Ellie. She is currently battling osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and my family and I are doing everything we can to aid in her healing.”
She added: “I am reminded of the Fred Rogers quote, ‘When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”’”
Appeal for support
Tom continued: “Ellie is an amazing, deep, sensitive, wise, strong, brave, intelligent, and funny soul. Beautiful inside and out. We have a long journey ahead of us.. would you be so kind to keep Ellie in your prayers for a complete recovery, and perhaps leave a comment for her here, or on her account?”
She thanked her friends, family and followers, as well as the doctors at Cedars-Sinai hospital in Los Angeles, adding: “It is truly humbling to see how willing people are to reach out and help.”
Outpouring of support
Bone cancer is a very rare form of cancer; osteosarcoma is one of the more common subtypes and often affects children and teenagers. Main treatments include chemotherapy and surgery, which may end in amputation.
Tom’s post drew support from followers, with comedian Ken Jeong writing: “Sending all our love and prayers for Ellie. Anything we can do let us know. Love you.” Actor and chef Ming-Na Wen echoed: “Praying for Ellie and keeping all of your family in our thoughts and prayers, sis! Love you!”
Tom also left a message on her daughter’s Instagram: “You are strong, brave and will recover from this completely to live a beautiful, meaningful life. You are so loved, Ellie, by everyone who knows you.”
