About Us
Angie Davidson interviews Mary McDonough
You're probably most famous for your part in the Waltons. Whenever I mention your name people start saying 'goodnight John Boy', does that still happen to you? Do you mind that people remember you for that particular role?
Yes, people always ask me about the 'goodnights', say them to me or ask me to say 'goodnight' to them. I realized a LONG time ago that when I was an old grandma, the first thing people would know about me is the show. So, no it doesn't bother me. People are interested and liked the show so it's nice.
What are your memories of being in the Waltons. Was it fun to be part of the programme as a child actor?
I have too many memories to list. It was fun to be a part of the show. It still is. We are all good friends and it's wonderful to be involved with something that brings joy to people. Everyone has fond memories, it's always a positive story I hear when people stop me.
After the Waltons did you continue to act or did you take a break?
I tried to continue to act after the show. I have continued to work here and there. But then I was undiagnosed for 10 years, it made getting jobs difficult. I didn't know what was wrong with me for so long, my career kind of went south.
I understand that, by coincidence, you actually played the part of a lupus patient in ER?
Yes, a girl who gets a kidney from her brother, then he almost dies in the surgery.
What other parts have you played? What was your favourite part?
WOW, that's tough. My favourite was the role on ER, I think. I mean, I love Erin, but she is different from me. More subtle, cautious. I liked the ER role because it was significant.
Is it true that you supported lupus charities before actually being diagnosed?
Yes, I was the youth ambassador for a Lupus group in LA when I was on the Waltons.
How/when did lupus manifest itself with you? How long did it take to get a diagnosis?
I got breast implants because I wanted to compete in my field and I was told that might help. I had a rash break out within 2 hours of getting implants. Then over the course of 10 years, my health declined to where I couldn't pick up my daughter. I had rashes, fevers, hair loss, arthritis, Sjögrens Syndrome, muscle aches, chronic fatigue, headaches, dizziness, vertigo and photo sensitivity. I was undiagnosed for 10 years. Everyone said it couldn't be my implants. But I now feel the chemicals triggered the immune response. There is no Lupus in my family. I was a healthy girl, got implants, got sick, had them out and have got better. I still deal with lupus every day but I am so blessed that since the removal I am SO MUCH better.
I understand that you are firmly of the belief that breast implants triggered your lupus and that you campaign to get this known?
I know people think there is no link, but most of the science that says that was paid for by the manufacturers. The independent studies that have been done show a connective tissue response and fibromyalgia. So yes I do believe it caused (or triggered) the lupus in me. There is no science to support it, but I was a healthy girl before I had them and am better now with them out.
What do you do to manage your own lupus?
I stay out of the sun, combine Western and Eastern medicines, acupuncture, sunscreen clothes, I meditate and try to get enough sleep. I also exercise, which helps.
What advice would you give to a newly diagnosed lupus patient?
Read Dr Wallace's 'The Lupus Book' but don't read too much or it might scare you. Trust your instincts, get a doctor you trust and listen to yourself - your inner voice that guides you in the most positive way. Join a group if you are so inclined, you may feel less alone. You can also try to have your family and friends learn about Lupus. My family didn't know anything about it for the longest time, but now that I asked them to learn, and taught them, they understand my limitations more.
What's your life like now?
I am still acting, I work in TV mostly here in the states. I am a life coach and work with people on the whole picture of their lives. I coach people to have what they want in their lives. I am also the mother of a daughter and 2 step daughters, so I'm crazy busy!
Thanks to Mary for taking time out of her very hectic schedule to talk to us.
