Video

Russell Means: 'That Love Makes My Life Worthwhile'

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

PORCUPINE, SOUTH DAKOTA - In an emotional video posted to his Facebook page that runs 5:50 minutes, Russell Means provides a heartfelt message that is filled with thanks to those who have provided ceremonies and prayers for him as he battles for his life.

“Today is a good day,”

said Mean. "That love make my life worthwhile," referencing the messages of support and love, he has received from all over the world since it was announced he has inoperable cancer of the esophagus. He said he has heard from people from New Zeeland, Canada, Africa, Europe and Russia, who have expressed their concern and prayers.

Means, who was one of the leaders of the American Indian Movement, who led protests and guided the organization during the early 1970s, said earlier this month he is relying traditional American Indian healers to assist him with his treatment.

After many years as an American Indian activist, Means became a Hollywood actor. Since 1992, he has appeared in "The Last of the Mohicans," "The Pathfinder," "Natural Born Killers," "Windrunner: A Spirited Journey," "Thomas and the Magic Railroad." His served as the voice of Chief Pawhatan in "Pocahontas" in the hit 1995 Disney movie.

In 1995, Means released his controversial autobiography, "Where White Men Fear to Tread," co-written with Marvin J. Wolf.

Means is married to Gloria Means, a Diné educator. He has two sons with his current wife and eight other children from previous marriages.

On the video, Means indicated he will provide periodical updates and said he is "thankful to be alive and to have done what I've done."

posted August 23, 2011 6:00 am edt