Farrah Fawcett is usually seen looking radiant on the television screen, but in her personal life, the star has been struggling with one of her most difficult life challenges. The blonde beauty is hanging tough after recently being diagnosed with cancer and has since undergone surgery to treat the disease.

The 59-year-old star of the original "Charlie's Angels" TV series appeared to be glowing with health at the Emmy awards five weeks ago but has since had an operation to remove a tumor from her lower intestine.

The tumor has been described as "the size of two strawberries" and she now faces a grueling course of chemotherapy treatment to overcome the potentially fatal disease.

A friend said, "Farrah faces hell but she's determined to be tough. She's told everyone around her, 'Look I've stopped crying, now you stop too.'"

On Wednesday, Fawcett put on a brave face as she walked to her gym, in Los Angeles, but she looked exhausted and unwell.

While the actress dazzled at the Emmys with her "Charlie's Angels" co-stars she was bravely hiding her illness.

A family friend said, "Though she looked magnificent at the ceremony, Farrah had been feeling faint, suffering abdominal pain and having cold sweats for two months."

Fawcett has now moved back in with her ex Ryan O'Neal, who has had Leukemia himself.

O'Neal canceled a film shoot to look after Fawcett and accompanied her to the UCLA medical center where she had radiation treatment to shrink the tumor.

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READER COMMENTS
October 18, 2006 - 09:31AM
I wish nothing but the best for Farrah, you are in my prayers. Remember you are not only beautiful on the outside but also on the inside.
October 26, 2006 - 05:39PM
Ive always been a fan of farrah's..and I too have battling rectal cancer..not looking forward to the treatments..Love ya girl.
November 10, 2006 - 11:07AM
I found out the same week as Farrah, that i have rectal cancer, and hope that she and myself, overcome this awful thing, I start my radiotherepy in two weeks time, to shrink tumor before surgery. I will mention her in my prayers
November 12, 2006 - 09:43AM
farrah you will be this be strong be positive be faithful your in my prayers.s..
May 21, 2007 - 01:32PM
Enjoyed your series. I wish and pray for your recovery. Please get well soon.
March 5, 2008 - 04:35PM - Judy Boeckman
Farrah, I was also diagnosed with cancer in 04
I have had 48 hits of radiation along with pill form chemo I 've had surgey and then more chemo ..hang in there Farrah it's a battle from hell, but you can beat it and your in my prayers love! and if there is anything I can help you with I will.I've been there and still am in LIFE AFTER CANCER, been in remission 2 years now
WHAT DO YOU THINK?