Farrah: A Brave Angel

We lost two of the biggest pop icons of our generation yesterday, Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett. The gaps they both leave behind will never be filled again. Fortunately, their contributions to our society have already been immortalized.

I'd like to comment on a particular gift that one of them left behind for us.

"Farrah's Story" is a documentary that Farrah Fawcett ("Double F" as her friends call her) released just this past May. Rather than focusing on the glamorous life that could only be led by an "Angel", Farrah shockingly allowed us to witness her battle with cancer first hand.

The documentary is raw and very hard to watch, particularly when you contrast it with Charlie's Angels. But it is a rare gift from a very public person who showed us what it's like to deal with a very crippling disease.

You can read a little bit about it here:  http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30749929/

"Farrah's Story" gives us the opportunity to see what it's like to go through cancer treatments. To experience the ups and downs of a deadly disease. To witness the side effects of drug therapies that were created to help extend life.

The documentary also shows us a woman filled with hope and love. Something that you have to have if you are going to fight a disease like cancer, or any other disease.

We work on a number brands that treat critical diseases, like cancer. Having the chance to really understand what it's like to live with these drugs and to fight these diseases is indeed a gift. It's a window into something we might not ever otherwise see.

Despite the pain and frustration, Farrah also gave us a peak into an incredibly strong and brave woman who fought the good fight every single day. Famous or not.

As "Double F" says at the end of her documentary, "What Are You Fighting For?"

Hope this finds you well -- Jim.