Hersha Parady, perhaps best known for playing Alice Garvey in Little House on the Prairie, has died aged 78, according to reports.
As per People, the actress had been battling cancer prior to her death, having been diagnosed with a brain tumor.
The late actress’s son, Jonathan Peverall, confirmed the news of her passing to The Hollywood Reporter, saying she died at his home in Norfolk, Virginia on Wednesday.
Last month Jonathan had established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the cost of his mother’s growing medical expenses. The page outlined its aim of “improving” Hersha’s “quality of life and giving her the support she needs during this difficult time.”
“This illness has robbed her of her strength, her memory, and sadly, her vibrant personality. She has become largely bedridden, and it is very difficult to see my Mom, who was once full of life and energy, now struggling with basic daily activities,” Peverall wrote on the GoFundMe.
“Upon seeing her condition during a recent visit to her home in Van Nuys, we decided to move her from Los Angeles to live with me and my family in Virginia, and while we are working to ensure she gets the medical help she needs, the costs associated with her care are mounting.”
The cast of the television series ‘Little House on the Prairie’ with a dog on the set of the show, mid 1970s. Clockwise from left: American actors Melissa Gilbert, Michael Landon (1936 – 1991), Karen Grassle, who holds an unidentified baby, Melissa Sue Anderson, and Lindsay or Sidney Greenbush. (Photo by Fotos International/Getty Images)
“We’re looking at surgery to hopefully improve her condition, but the road to recovery is a long one, and the costs go beyond just medical,” he continued. “From moving expenses to in-home nursing care, to medical equipment and more, the financial burden is significant. And with a full time job and three kids, providing her with the level of care she needs is difficult. Rest assured, we are taking care of her to the best of our ability, and we will continue to do so, regardless of any contributions made here.”
Earlier this month Hersha, who rose to fame after playing Alice Garvey on Little House on the Prairie, had undergone “successful” surgery. Following a stint in a rehabilitation facility, the 78-year-old returned to hospital after she developed pneumonia.
In an update published on August 1, Jonathan wrote: “For the past week, she has been in the ICU on a ventilator, and while there have been some moments of clarity, she has been unable to fully wake up.
“Thank you all again for your unwavering support. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers, sending positive energy her way.”
Credit / https://www.gofundme.com/f/helping-hersha
Hersha was well liked by fans of Little House on the Prairie after her school teacher character’s introduction in 1977. She continued playing the role of Alice until the character was killed off in 1980.
The actress also appeared in shows such as The Waltons, The Phoenix, and Kenan and Kel.
Rest in peace, Hersha, and thanks for the memories.
