Each and every one of us must face our own battles in life. And although we may feel like we have to overcome them alone, that couldn’t be further from the truth. This is something that actor, author, and comedian Maddy Anholt proved to be true in the life that she lived, all the way to the day she passed away just two days ago from brain cancer at only 35 years old. In her short life, she was able to contribute so much good in the world.
Early on in her career, Maddy took to the stage in a one-woman comedy called “Diary Of A Dating Addict” before landing her own BBC Radio comedy show in 2017. Since then, she’s become a beloved BBC Radio 4 star. But the work that was most close to her heart, it seems, has to do with the topic of domestic abuse.
For much of her life, Maddy was a passionate campaigner against domestic abuse. One way she did this was through being an ambassador for Women’s Aid, a charity in the UK that works to provide services for those in abusive relationships as well as raise awareness of them.
Maddy was also willing to open up about her own personal experiences so that others could feel seen and know that there is hope. One way she did this was through her book, “How to Leave Your Psychopath.” In it, she exposed the toxic behaviors of abusive partners so that others may have an easier time finding freedom. Her first fiction book will also be published soon.
“Maddy was an absolute joy to work with, bringing a lightness of touch to each of her projects, however difficult the subject matter,” Anna Pallai, her agent at AMP Literary said. “I’m going to miss her terribly.”
Through life’s ups and downs, it’s clear that Maddy surrounded herself with folks who would not only support her as an individual but would also help her in making the world a brighter place. This was especially needed, no doubt, when she was first diagnosed last year with a “rare and aggressive” form of brain cancer just a year after giving birth to her daughter, Opal.
“She handled the ensuing surgery and treatment with astonishing grace and courage, accompanied every step of the way by her family and devoted husband, Ben,” reads a line from the GoFundMe created to support Maddy’s family. “She spent her final weeks at her parents’ home, Sunflower House, bathed in love and calm, and with the sounds of nature all around.”
While we all process our traumas and experiences in life differently, it’s inspiring to see the way Maddy was able to use what she went through as a way to connect with others. In turn, she was able to implement positive changes, both in her own life and the lives of others.
We offer our most sincere sympathy to Maddy’s family and loved ones and hope they find comfort in knowing what an incredible legacy she leaves behind. You can visit the Anholt family’s GoFundMe to learn how to support them during this difficult time.
You can find the sources of this story’s featured image here and here.
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