Author Jackie Collins passes away from breast cancer

Best selling author Jackie Collins has passed away, aged 77, from breast cancer.

After keeping her illness a secret from anyone that wasn't close family, the English novelist  died in Los Angeles last night, having given an interview only five short days ago, where she told the world of her condition.

In the interview with People magazine, the younger sister of actress Joan Collins, revealed she had been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer more than six years ago, but that she had no regrets over her life and that all she cared about is that her daughters and grandchildren will know she will be watching over them.

A spokesman for her family said: "It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the death of our beautiful, dynamic and one of a kind mother, Jackie Collins, who died of breast cancer today."

In a lovely tribute, she continued:

"Jackie lived a wonderfully full life and was adored by her family, friends and the millions of readers who she has been entertaining for over four decades. She was a true inspiration, a trail blazer for women in fiction and a creative force. She will live on through her characters but we already miss her beyond words."

October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month is nearly here, and so please remember to check yourself, girls. Those few minutes can save lives.