Hayley Mills, the beloved Disney child star of the 1960s, has lived a life full of highs and struggles. Famous for Pollyanna and The Parent Trap, Mills became one of Hollywood’s brightest young stars. However, behind the cheerful on-screen image, she battled an eating disorder and financial losses. “I’m trying to shrink my stomach to peanut size,” she admitted in 1964, revealing her silent fight with bulimia.

Born on April 18, 1946, to British acting legends, Mills was discovered by director J. Lee Thompson at just 12. Her breakout roles for Disney made her a household name. But by her 20s, she faced public scrutiny for her marriage to director Roy Boulting, who was 33 years older. She also lost nearly all her childhood earnings due to high taxes in Britain.

In 2008, on her birthday, Mills received a shocking call — she had breast cancer. After surgery and chemotherapy, she fought back with courage. “That gave me a real focus to get well,” she said. Now 79, Mills enjoys life with her children, five grandchildren, and a renewed outlook on health and happiness.