Update: On August 13, 2022, Robyn Griggs Wiley sadly passed away from her battle with Endocervical Adeno Cancer.

This interview took place in 2021. 

In this interview, she reveals:

• How Acting on Soap Operas Prepared her for Other Acting Roles
• Fighting Endocervical Adeno Cancer
• Staying Positive Through Life's Challenges
• A Special Message to her Fans
• So Much More 

Robyn Griggs Wiley

• Why do you feel you had to take so many breaks? As a child actress, it's important to also experience things that a child does. Being real, helps you understand the characters you portray. Throughout my life I tried to take moments of time for me. You can get burned out easily...Take the time to enjoy life.
• What do you think kept bringing you back? It's my passion and I truly enjoy it. I love the whole business. I'm meant to do this and I would love to again :)

Robyn Griggs Wiley

4. 2020 was a rough year for us all, with the Global Pandemic, but it was even harder for you because you were diagnosed with Stage 4 Endocervical Adeno Cancer. 

• How did you find the space and strength to face both adversities at one time? Horrible year for many. I chose to just go with it. I can't dwell on my disease or this pandemic, it will absorb you. You have the power to make this a positive experience. Don't give control elsewhere.
• With the pandemic in full force at that point, can you speak to what went through your mind knowing you would have to go to the hospital for treatment? I was horrified. It's frightening to realize you have a horrible disease, but more frightening to go through it surrounded by masks. I love to laugh, that's my way of coping and so I made sure to find something funny to think about. Depression is a terrible thing and I definitely have moments of that, but I remember...I'm still here. No need to dwell, make each day, one that isn't lost, but is something that makes you smile…even for just an instance.

5. For other women out there:

• Can you talk a little bit about how your diagnosis came about? I thought I was invincible and didn't need to get screened or any checkups. I had pain in my pelvis and very painful periods, but thought that was just a normal thing...turns out, that isn't normal. I was at the point where I knew it was too much for me to bear. I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with Stage 4 Endocervical Adeno cancer.
• What were some of your symptoms? Pain during periods, abdomen swelling. I was losing my ability to urinate normally. I cannot stress enough how important it is to get checked out and if possible get the vaccine available to fight against several cancers.

Robyn Griggs Wiley

6. How do you stay positive through this very difficult time?

• I have times where I cry. Crying is healthy, let it out. Then move on.
• You have been dealt these cards, make them Aces.
• Only you can control your life...make it a good one.
• Smile before you shut your eyes every night and take the time to be selfish.
• Enjoy your life. Enjoy it for you. It will help your situation, but also help the people fighting with you.
• Smile. :)

7. Where do you find your strength? God. I'm not overly religious, but I believe. My family, friends, fans...all have helped me realize I can fight this. They lift me up. My husband, Mark, has helped me be strong and move past the tears. My dog, my baby boy, Ralphie. He makes me smile and takes my mind off of my situation. Animals heal the heart. I'm thankful for all of these people around me :)

8. How do you find moments of peace and sanity amongst all the chaos? I just live. I move forward and take the time I need for me. Being strong doesn't mean you can't be soft. Right now, I need to take in every moment and enjoy it when I can.

9. With the knowledge you have gained through this journey, what advice would you give to other women? Please get screened. Go to your checkups. It's better to find out if something is wrong...our doctors and medicine are amazing. Treatment is there. Don't be afraid of what might be, it is, what it is and you can make the difference in your own future.

10. What didn't we get to cover in this interview that you'd like my readers to know about you? I think we covered a lot, but I just want to say thanks for following my journey and the support you all have given me. It is making me a true warrior. I love you all.

Robyn Griggs Wiley

More on Robyn Griggs Wiley:

Robyn Griggs Wiley is best known for her role of Stephanie Hobart on ABC’s One Life to Live and Maggie Cory on NBC’s Another World for which she was nominated for a Young Artist Award. Her credits include independent horror films such as Zombiegeddon and Ghost Tour and she has hosted the horror convention Twisted Nightmare Weekend. Robyn also has a CD entitled Love’s Young Nightmare.