Patte Dee McKee, 69, Former Model, Family Film Festival Co-Founder

You co-founded the International Family Film Festival?
Yes. No profanity, gratuitous violence or sex. We sponsor a screenwriting competition and we have a film camp teaching children how to make film.

Did you start out in film?
Modeling. I was on my own at 16. Couldn't afford college. Then I was "discovered" by Howard Hughes.

The Howard Hughes?
He saw some pictures and wanted me at RKO Studio. Through him I continued my education, learned music, opera, got singing lessons. I became a singer, performed in theater. He treated me like a kid sister. It was an amazing experience.

What else have you done?
Costume design for film and I'm a needlework artist too.

Do you have a family?
I was married and raised four children.

What advice do you often give?
Live every day. Say, "I love you." And, if a door opens for you, take advantage of it.

It's been open for you.
Oh, I think so. I think there's a plan. I have a good one.

So you're lucky?
I'd say I'm a survivor. I survived a child dying from cancer. I survived my own cancer. I use what I've learned.

Apply that to your osteoporosis.
My mother had it. After three major breaks she was confined to a wheelchair. That's not for me. I exercise a lot, lift weights, eat healthy, take medication. I just gave up three flights of stairs to move to a ground floor place.

Do you have a favorite day of the week?
Tomorrow.

Calendar Tip: Patte Dee's osteoporosis tip: Avoid excessive alcohol. It reduces bone mass and increases the risk of fractures.

The Bone Divas Calendar project is made possible with support and assistance from Roche and GlaxoSmithKline.