Jurassic Park’s Sam Neill "not remotely afraid" of dying amid cancer battle
Jurassic Park star Sam Neill has said he is "not afraid" of dying amid his battle with cancer.
The actor confirmed earlier this year that he had been treated for stage three blood cancer, though has now been in remission for 12 months.
However, the star requires infusions every fortnight after taking a rare anti-cancer drug, and will need to do so for the rest of his life. Doctors have also told him that the drug will stop working one day, which he is "prepared" for.
Related: Sam Neill reveals why he was "slightly irked" by Jurassic Park marketing
In a new interview with Australian Story, the actor reflected on mortality, admitting: "I'm not in any way frightened of dying, that's never worried me from the beginning.
"But I would be annoyed," he added. "I'd be annoyed because there are things I still want to do. Very irritating, dying. But I'm not afraid of it."
Speaking previously about his diagnosis, Neill told The Guardian: “I can’t pretend that the last year hasn’t had its dark moments.
Related: Jurassic Park's Sam Neill opens up about "mortifying" James Bond audition
“But those dark moments throw the light into sharp relief, you know, and have made me grateful for every day and immensely grateful for all my friends. Just pleased to be alive."
Reflecting on his decision to write a memoir amid his illness, the actor further explained: “I never had any intention to write a book. But as I went on and kept writing, I realised it was actually sort of giving me a reason to live.
“I would go to bed thinking ‘I’ll write about that tomorrow… that will entertain me.’ And so it was a lifesaver really, because I couldn’t have gone through that with nothing to do.”
If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Macmillan Cancer Support, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.
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