My Heartstrings Are Pulling Me Home

Olivia Newton-John’s defying her doctors once more and returning to the place she calls home.

When Olivia NewtonJohn was named on the Australia Day honours list last month, it was a recognition that meant more to the revered singer than most.

Now, as she battles cancer for the third time with an incredible fighting spirit true to her Aussie roots, close friends have revealed a brave Olivia is desperate to return home for a final visit Down Under.

And despite reports earlier this year that she was clinging to life and had just weeks to live, friends say the determined mother-of-one is defying her doctors and preparing to fly to Australia in March.

“Olivia was thrilled to be awarded in the Australia Day honours – it’s the third time she’s been recognised in this way – and the most meaningful because of where she finds herself in terms of health,” one close friend tells Woman’s Day. “Her heartstrings are pulling her home.

DESPERATE TO RETURN

“Although it would be a huge effort, she’s desperate to fly back to Australia in March to receive the award. It would mean so much more to receive it in person.

“Ironically, she can do this only because she’s so ill, as she’s less committed workwise. The upside of not performing is that she is appreciating not having a packed schedule – she’s at least able to do personal things that she wasn’t able to fit in before.