A spokesperson from Austin Health, which runs the ONJ center at Melbourne’s Austin Hospital, has released a statement and announced the center will hold a memorial for its icon.
“Olivia touched the lives of many people across Australia and the world, but none more so than our cancer services staff and patients at the Olivia Newton-John Centre, who she encouraged, inspired and supported every day,” the statement reads.
Olivia Newton-John: A life in pictures
“We are incredibly grateful for the special relationship we had with Olivia for many years. Her generous support and gift provided hope and changed the lives of thousands of cancer patients here at Austin Health.
“She was the light at the end of the tunnel for many, many people.”
“Since the ONJ Center opened, thousands of cancer patients have come through the doors and accessed the world-leading services. Olivia’s dream was supporting people with cancer person through supportive wellness therapies.
“She found them so helpful to her journey that she wanted everyone to have access to them.
“Olivia was a driving force to win over cancer, for treating the whole person and looking after their mind, spirit and body. Having the opportunity to meet Olivia was a joy, her kindness and light was irrepressible.”
“The ONJ Center was her dream, and we are proud of everything we achieved together. We will continue our work to honor her legacy,” the statement continues.
The center has announced it is planning a memorial service for its staff, patients and their families.
It has been preparing for its annual Wellness Walk fundraiser in October.
In past years, Newton-John led the walk through Melbourne.
The center opened in June 2012.