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JACLYN SMITH

EMBRACES

EVERY MINUTE

SINCE BEATING

BREAST

CANCER.

BY CHRIS MANN

EVER SINCE CHARLIE BESTOWED ANGEL WINGS on her more than 30 years ago, Jaclyn Smith has publicly epitomized leading a wholesome—and whole—life. The Texas-born actress’ family-centered upbringing helped her avoid the pitfalls of Hollywood while staying down-to-earth as a doting daughter, wife and mom during her ascent to pop-culture immortality. But even her Southern grace and celestial charm couldn’t help her float above the indiscriminate reach of breast cancer. In 2002, Smith’s doctor discovered a mass when she had her annual mammogram. A biopsy confirmed Stage 1 cancer. Disbelief, fear and a lumpectomy with radiation soon followed—all happily punctuated by a clean bill of health, thanks in large part to early detection.

But the prolific miniseries queen turned self-branding businesswoman hardly slowed down during her battle. Instead, she forged ahead balancing TV and film gigs, her home-furnishings and fashion lines, and her favorite role of all: mother to son Gaston, 26, and daughter Spencer Margaret, 22. While still playing an active part in her children’s adult lives, the former “Charlie’s Angels” star also continues to empower women as spokeswoman for the Strength in Knowing breast cancer awareness campaign. Breathtakingly beautiful at 61, the former Breck Girl and Wella Balsam spokesmodel—also still famous for her lovely locks as host of Bravo’s hit reality series “Shear Genius”—reflects on her personal and professional challenges, and the priceless value of family and friends during her treatment.