Pokemon voice actress 'barely able to walk' after cancer spreads to her spine

14 May 2024 , 17:42

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A Pokemon actress was diagnosed with cancer

Rachael Lillis — known for her voice acting roles on Pokemon, Jessie and Misty — is struggling with cancer.

The news was confirmed by her sister who launched a GoFundMe campaign to help with medical costs associated with her battle, including a nurse. According to the campaign, Rachel is currently in a Los Angeles nursing home, but the family is hopeful to move her back home with a personal nurse. They're hoping that the money can help pay "someone who can cook some simple meals, help her daily, and give her medication."

Her family also explained that the cancer spread to her spine, making it difficult for her to walk. However, they did not specify what type of cancer Rachel was diagnosed with.

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The star's GoFundMe achieved over double its goal (GoFundMe)

Rachel's received support from two Pokemon co-stars, Eric Stuart and Tara Jayne. Eric, who plays James and Brock, shared the link on X, formerly known as Twitter, and wrote: "This is not easy news to share. I have been friends with Rachael for over 25years. Most people may know us as the silly villains Jessie and James from Team Rocket or Misty and Brock from Pokemon. Please give what you can. F--- cancer."

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Tara, who voices Bulbasaur, wrote: "Our friend Rachael Lillis is in need of your help. Her sister has started a GoFundMe for medical bills. Rachael's incredible talent, voice and kindness have contributed so much to all of our lives. Any contribution you can make will help."

She played multiple roles on Pokemon (Shogakukan)

Outside of Pokemon, Rachel has voiced English dub roles on projects like Utena Tenjō in Revolutionary Girl Utena, Martina in Slayers Next, Micott Bartsch in Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn, Nagi Kirima in Boogiepop Phantom, Yuriko Star in The Irresponsible Captain Tylor, Kanaka Ohno in Genshiken, and Ami Kurimoto in DNA².

The GoFundMe has surpassed the $20,000 goal by over double as fans and friends have rushed to support her during this time. A fan wrote: "Rachael, you have touched the lives of people all over the world and have been a source of comfort and laughter since early childhood to our now adulthood. You are such an amazing, talented, and kindhearted person and we will be rooting for you on your road to recovery. Sending you all our love, always!"

Alex West