Elizabeth Taylor, Jewel of Hollywood Age

It has been said that violet-eyed Elizabeth Taylor was a woman known for her superb acting ability, multiple marriages, gorgeous diamonds, and compassion. Her purple eyes displayed royalty on stage and integrity in public. In the end, her heart failed, a major cause of death and disability in women.

Dead at 79 from congestive heart failure, Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor was perhaps most remembered for her roles in National Velvet, Cleopatra, and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf.

(Pitcher used in the movie National Velvet, hand painted and made in Czechoslovakia.)

Or maybe you remember her from her close relationship with the late Michael Jackson, who was 27 years younger. Or maybe you have been told that she received a big payout doing films, becoming the first Hollywood actress to make $1m from a picture.

Taylor was no saint and admitted it. But she lived life 'til the end, admired by her friends and adored by movie goers, young and old.

On the other hand, no one wants to lead a glamorous life just to live their last years languishing in poor health. Taylor, like many 79 year olds, had heart disease and hip problems. One wonders whether her lifestyle and schedule played havoc on her health, and whether not having stable relationships and a life-long companion in the end was bad. Last year, it was rumored that Taylor was engaged to Jason Winters, 49, an entertainment manager.

According to PubMed Health, if you have heart failure, it means your heart is not pumping properly. Your weight has to be checked daily. "Weight gain can be a sign that your body is holding onto extra fluid and your heart failure is worsening."

Other important measures include:
* limit salt and sodium intake,
* quit smoking,
* stay active,
* get enough rest,
* use oil and vinegar rather than bottled dressings on salads,
* and eat fresh fruit or sorbet when having dessert.

Whether good or bad, Taylor's life exemplified one glorious ride to the finish line.

(Elizabeth Taylor's "Passion" dusting powder is still sold in many drug stores.)

©2011 Tomi Johnson. All rights reserved.