Veteran Soap Star Diagnosed With Leukemia

Soap opera star Kassie DePaiva has revealed that she has been diagnosed with leukemia, sharing the news on her website Wednesday night.

"I know that I have been quiet lately and I want to let you know what's been going on in my life," the actress wrote. " I was asked back to play Eve on Days and had begun my exciting return. During the 3 week July hiatus I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia and have spent 6 of the last 9 weeks in the hospital."

DePaiva, who SoapHub reports began her soap career in 1986 as Chelsea Reardon on CBS's Guiding Light, shared that she is optimistic about her future.

"I will continue treatment over the next 3 months," she wrote. "My prognosis is good, I will not likely need a stem cell/bone marrow transplant, and we expect a complete cure. I have amazing prayer warriors, family, and friends that have been extremely supportive and life affirming throughout this."

The actress added that she takes strength from her faith, and wanted to let fans know what was happening in her life as her character returns to television.

"I have a strong faith that strengthens me every step of the way," DePaiva explained. "This has been a private matter but with Eve's return coming soon I felt it was time to let my loving fans know what's been going on. The Days and OLTL family love runs deep. Although I'm unable to be "camera ready" now... my goal is get back to stirring up trouble in Salem soon. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers."

DePaiva went on to give fans tools to help in aiding leukemia research by going to Cornellleukemia.com, or to BeTheMatch.org to consider becoming a bone marrow donor.

This story first appeared at Womanista.