Denise Nickerson who appeared in the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory has suffered a stroke and is currently in critical condition according to her family.
TMZ first reported that 61-year-old actress, known for her role as Violet Beauregarde in the 1971 film is currently in the intensive care unit (ICU).
A Facebook fundraiser page titled “Raising money for Jasmine and Josh Nickerson hospital fees and general” has been created by her family, which revealed the actress suffered a stroke in late June.
The page offers updates on the stars’ condition and how her family is coping, as well as auctioning off autographed items belonging to the actress, such as photos of her playing Violet in Willy Wonka.
Nickerson, who has been described by her family as a fighter, has reportedly had a pacemaker put in and is being fed through straws.
Chris Lewis, who set up the fundraiser page wrote: “I’m on the verge of tears the care love support and donations have been astronomical to say the least. I can’t even put into words my appreciation for all of you though this tough time that I know stubborn Denise will pull through. Thank you all. Every one of you are miracles.”
Fans were quick to comment, with many of them wishing the actress a speedy recovery. “Please tell Denise how much she is loved and that we are all praying for her and you. Miracles happen every day so please keep praying and hoping for the best,” one commentator wrote.
Another added: “Many prayers and much love is being sent to you and your family.”
In Willy Wonka Nickerson played one of the spoiled children who wins a tour of the chocolate factory. She steals an experimental piece of chewing gum from Wonka’s factory that leads to her blowing up like a giant blueberry. The actress also had roles in The Brady Bunch, Sark Shadows and The Electric Company.
The fundraiser has closed after collecting $2,492 of its initial $1,500 goal, TMZ reported.