Finola Hughes has been a popular daytime TV actress for the last 30 years. Hughes’ long and successful acting career includes over 19 films, including Stayin’ Alive, and 30 different television shows. She is also recognized for originating the role of Victoria the White Cat in the original West End London production of Cats, a show just revived on Broadway in 2016.

Now Hughes is taking on a new role: raising awareness for a group of rare, chronic and under-recognized blood cancers called Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (or MPNs). Through a new development in the character she portrays, Hughes has a unique and timely opportunity to bring national attention and inspire those impacted—patients and caregivers alike—to be their own health advocates. MPNs can often be difficult to diagnose, which can greatly impact the lives of patients and their families – making increased awareness, education and support critically important.

Actress Finola Hughes – who has a personal connection to cancer – will be available to share behind-the-scenes insights into preparing for her role as a patient impacted by an MPN. Hughes will be joined by Ellen Ritchie, MD, Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, an expert in the field of MPNs, who can educate patients and their families with information to help cope with a rare blood cancer diagnosis.