Soap star Kim Zimmer reveals her real-life battle with breast cancer during the Daytime Stands Up event, highlighting the importance of early detection and support systems.
Kim Zimmer
On May 16, during the special live event, Daytime Stands Up: A Benefit for Stand Up to Cancer… We All Have a Story, numerous soap opera stars, both past and present, gathered to share poignant memories of portraying cancer storylines and their real-life experiences with the disease.
Among the heartfelt testimonials, Kim Zimmer, renowned for her role as Reva Shayne on Guiding Light, disclosed her battle with breast cancer.
An Emmy-winning actress, Zimmer bravely revealed her diagnosis during a touching segment.
“I was diagnosed with breast cancer on November 6,” she shared.
She credited her survival and resilience to a robust support system comprising friends, family, and exceptional medical professionals.
“If it were not for my wonderful circle of friends, and not to mention my husband, AC Weary, and my family, Rachel, Max, and Jake, who call me every day, I would have fallen apart. However, early detection was possible because of my circle, including fabulous doctors.”
Zimmer emphasized the importance of support systems and early detection for anyone facing a similar diagnosis. “Finding a support system is important,” she urged.
Zimmer’s illustrious daytime career began in 1978 with the role of Bonnie on One Life to Live.
She then played Nola on The Doctors before returning to OLTL as Echo DiSavoy in 1983.
However, her portrayal of Reva Shayne on Guiding Light solidified her status as a soap opera legend.
Zimmer’s career highlights include:
- 1983: Cast as Reva Shayne on Guiding Light
- 1990: Departed Guiding Light
- 1995: Returned to Guiding Light
- 2010: Reprised her role as Echo on One Life to Live
Throughout her tenure on Guiding Light, Zimmer received 11 Daytime Emmy Award nominations, winning four for Outstanding Lead Actress.
Zimmer’s message to women everywhere was clear and urgent: “I am a tough broad.”
“But again, if I did not have the friends that I have, the support system that I have, the fabulous doctors, a fantastic plastic surgeon, I would have fallen apart. Moreover, I am here to say early detection and early detection. Get your mammograms. Get them soon.”
Her powerful testimony highlights the critical role of early detection in battling cancer and underscores the importance of regular health screenings.
Zimmer’s journey and advocacy serve as an inspiring reminder for all women to prioritize their health and seek timely medical advice.
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