Victoria Shaw was a talented and beautiful actress and model who rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s. She appeared in several Hollywood films, such as The Eddy Duchin Story, The Crimson Kimono, and Westworld, as well as Australian television shows and stage productions. She was also a passionate animal rights activist and a devoted mother of three children. However, her life was cut short by a chronic lung disease that eventually claimed her life in 1988. In this article, we will explore the cause of death of Victoria Shaw, and how she coped with her illness in her final years.
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What is Emphysema?
Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that affects the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. The alveoli are responsible for exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide between the blood and the air. In emphysema, the alveoli become damaged and lose their elasticity, making it harder to breathe. Emphysema can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and fatigue. Emphysema can also increase the risk of infections, heart problems, and lung cancer.
According to Mayo Clinic, emphysema is usually caused by long-term exposure to irritants that damage the lungs, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, dust, or chemicals. Emphysema can also be caused by a rare genetic condition called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency, which affects the production of a protein that protects the lungs from damage.
Emphysema has no cure, but treatments can help slow down the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life of the patients. Treatments may include medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, surgery, or lung transplant.
How Did Victoria Shaw Develop Emphysema?
Victoria Shaw was diagnosed with emphysema in the early 1980s, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. The exact cause of her emphysema is not known, but it is possible that she developed it from smoking or from exposure to environmental pollutants. Shaw was a smoker for most of her life, and she lived in Los Angeles for many years, where the air quality was often poor.
Shaw also suffered from asthma, which is a condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs. Asthma can trigger or worsen the symptoms of emphysema, and vice versa. Shaw had asthma since childhood, and she often had to use inhalers to manage her condition.
How Did Victoria Shaw Cope with Her Illness?
Despite her illness, Victoria Shaw continued to work as an actress until her death. She appeared in several television shows and films in the 1980s, such as General Hospital, McCloud, and Charlie’s Angels. She also performed on stage in Australia, where she starred in musicals such as How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and South Pacific.
Shaw was determined to live her life to the fullest and to pursue her passions. She was an avid supporter of animal rights causes, and she was involved with several animal welfare organizations. She also donated money and time to various charities and humanitarian causes. She was known for her generosity and kindness towards those in need.
Shaw also maintained a close relationship with her three children: Tracey Leone (born 1957), Jordan F. (born 1958), and Dallas E. (born 1961). Her children were from her first marriage to actor Roger Smith, whom she divorced in 1965. She later married producer Elliott Alexander in 1966, but they also divorced. Shaw never remarried after that.
Shaw’s children were very supportive of their mother during her illness. They often visited her in Australia or invited her to stay with them in America. They also helped her with her medical expenses and care.
How Did Victoria Shaw Die?
Victoria Shaw died on August 17, 1988 at Hornsby Hospital in Sydney at the age of 53 from emphysema. She had been hospitalized for several days after suffering a severe asthma attack that worsened her condition. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends.
Shaw’s death was mourned by many people who admired her talent and beauty. She was remembered as a talented actress, a devoted mother, and a passionate activist. She left behind a legacy as one of Australia’s most beloved actresses.
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