After seeing the courageous Elysia Skye on the Style Network show “Style My Nest,” we had to have an interview. She embodies everything we look for in a subject: a creator (actress, producer, director and writer), fun, intelligent and a fighter. Ms. Skye, after being diagnosed in 2005, is a breast cancer survivor who now brings her own unique outlook on the disease in her efforts to find a cure and help others see the light at the end of the tunnel. 

Lucky for us, she enthusiastically agreed to let us pick her brain and find out a little more about this fabulous GenXer. 

SL: What was your initial reaction when you found out you had cancer.

ES: I took a deep breath and decided to kick cancer's ass.  I was scared about what I would look like, how I would be able to afford treatment and time off work, if my acting career would be effected and if my boyfriend would stick by me. I quickly reminded myself that I am a determined person, I am a spiritual being and that I am a creator. I was going to be fine. I just had to remember to keep breathing, and try to laugh as often as possible.

SL: Did you have a role model while going through treatment or was it the lack of someone your age to look to, which led you to be that person for others?

ES: My role model was my mother. She passed away when I was 12, and she gave me the strength to carry through any tragedy or trauma. She had MS and was a teacher and a healer. She was a loving mother, sister and friend to hundreds of people. 

SL:  What has been the reaction to your film, Lose Weight with Cancer, and what led you to go there?

ES: I have gotten nothing but positive reviews from men and women of all ages. There is something for everyone in this film. I was inspired while undergoing treatment, after losing my hair and 20 pounds. I was wearing a tight dress and a bobbed wig when I ran into an old friend who didn't know I had been diagnosed.  He hugged me in excitement, telling me I looked amazing! Asked if I had been working out and whatever I was doing, keep it up.  That was the beginning of the laughter that has continued everyday. His name is Spanky. Of course!

SL: Who were you before cancer-did you have the same outlook or did this experience totally change your perspective of the world?

ES: My friend Jenn says I have always been a gypsy, so I haven't changed so much as far as my positive outlook on life, but now I have stronger spiritual beliefs regarding forgiveness and manifestation. I believe we choose our lives and every detail that comes along with it. I also have learned how to ask for help, how to receive, and the importance of treating yourself the way you want others to treat you.

SL: What has been the most touching part of your fund raising efforts?

ES: I am constantly overwhelmed at the generosity of acquaintances and strangers. People who have no idea who I am are sending PayPal, cash and checks in the mail. They have read my story and told me I am inspiring them! THEY are inspiring ME! My close friends are there for me over and over. I don't take any of it for granted. I am loved

SL: Any words of advice for others with cancer?

ES: You have made this choice. You created this. Now you can un-create it.  Reflect on how you emotionally handle stress and fear. If it hasn't already, it needs to change now. Cancer is curable, as long as your attitude is flexible. Laugh, love and receive.

SL: How did you land on Style My Nest and how was that experience? Did you keep things the way they designed it after all?

ES: I submitted my headshot and short story on an actors website based out of LA. I had a phone interview, an audition, a producer’s session and I booked it! The process was not much different than a normal acting job, but I did not go on the air as an actress. I was promoting my book (I Got My Tits Done in Beverly Hills) and my organization. I have kept things the way Thom designed them, with a few additions of my old artwork. I can't live without my Superman posters!

SL: Thank you Elysia, for your time and candor. We wish you the best of everything, especially your health!

ES: You're welcome. This has been fun! Additionally, 93 Rock.com (South Florida- Ft. Lauderdale is my hometown) is promoting my site with online banners and giving part of their Halloween charity to my cause. For more info, email Crystal Ganz at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

You can learn more about Elysia and her survival tactics and non-profit organization by visiting the following websites: 

www.elysiaskye.org

www.loseweightwithcancer.com

www.elysiaskye.com