In The News
Magge Smith Diagnosed with Cancer; Prognosis "looks good"
SmithThe Telegraph has reported today that Dame Maggie Smith, known to Potter film fans as Prof. McGonagall, has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She has had a tumor removed and has undergone a course of chemotherapy; the prognosis “looks good,” a friend of hers told the paper.
Everyone on staff at, and, we’re sure, reading Leaky wishes this fine actress a double measure of luck and health to counteract this difficult turn of events.
You can write to Dame Maggie Smith at Leavesden Studios:
c/o Harry Potter Production
Leavesden Studios
P.O. Box 3000
Leavesden, Hertfordshire
WD25 7LT
United Kingdom
On a related note, for the past few weeks, have been discussing (on PotterCast) releasing a limited-time “pink” version of our holiday charity album, Jingle Spells, to benefit breast cancer research. As this news highlights that issue through a Potter lens, we would appreciate those who would be interested in buying a copy leaving a comment here so that we could get an idea of how many to order and whether it’s a good idea. This would be donated to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. (I will be taking part in this walk in October; to contribute to the cause please visit this link.) Our Jingle Spells holiday fundraiser brought in more than $34,000, and the donation has been made to Book Aid (expect a full post on this matter shortly); for this run the blue cover art would be turned pink.
(And PS, if you are still having a problem receiving your holiday order of JS, contact me privately, please, as this post isn’t the place to address it. There are probably a few straggling missing orders out there and we want to make sure to get everyone’s.)
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My thoughts go with her. We know she can win this fight!!!
If money orders are an option I will certainly buy one or two Jingle Spells.
I would LOVE to buy a pink version of JS – especially knowing that it’s going to a good cause! Many prayers and best wishes to Dame Maggie Smith (and all others battling breast cancer).
Emily
I would sooooo by it! for wizard rock and to help find a cure!
Oh, those cancer cells don’t know what they’re in for, having attacked Professor McGonagall! They should be afraid, very afraid! This is one tough lady, and I know she’ll be fine. God bless you, Dame Maggie! Many healing thoughts and prayers are coming your way. I imagine you’re about done filming HBP, so get some good rest for a few months and be ready to come back for Deathly Hallows and Charge those desks! :)
Dear Dame Maggie, my heart goes out to you and your family. Having been through it with my Mum I know just what you’ve been going through. I wish you a full and speedy recovery!
It’s a sad fact that we never quite realize just how frighteningly common this disease is, until it hits close to home. Wouldn’t it be a great tribute to Maggie Smith if we could all get together and support Melissa as she tries to raise money for the Avon Walk. It’s great that so many of you seem to want to buy the pink Jingle Spells CD, but for those who already have it or feel they can’t afford it, it would be lovely if you could sponsor Melissa, even just a small amount. $1 from everyone who reads this sad news about one of “our” Harry Potter actors could raise a lot of money and make a huge difference in the fight against cancer!
I’ll buy a cd!
Maggie Smith is so brilliant, I wish her the very best of luck and health. Thanks Melissa for doing the walk!!
OMG. I hape she gets back to health very soon. We’re all praying for you!!!
All my heart to Dame Maggie Smith. I would gladly buy a copy of Jingle Spells in pink to support the Avon Walk. Bless you for doing the walk Mel. It’s an inspiration to other to get involved. Plus think of the great exercise!
I wish you a speedy recovery Maggie! You will be in my thoughts!
I also wish Dame Maggie Smith well. I would buy three copies, one for myself and my daughter (11), my mom and my sister as well since we are all Harry Potter fans and we all enjoy watching her play the part of Prof. McGonagall. Get well soon!!
I wish Dame Maggie Smith a complete and speedy recovery! I love her portrayal of McGonagall. I’d be glad to buy the special edition of the cd.
Thoughts and prayers for Professor M. I would definitely buy another copy of Jingle Spells. My Mom is a breast cancer survivor….this is such a worthy cause.
I would do anything for that elegant, lovely Lady. Count me in!!!!
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ANYONE: If there is a BREAST CANCER WALK NEARBY your home, I would sugest doing it (it raises alot according to the number of people who do it) You might have to donate money to participate, and that helps too.