The bestselling writer passed away last month (Sep15) following a long battle with breast cancer, and it has now emerged she penned a message to fans to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October (15).

The letter has now been published on Collins' website, and in it, she offers words of support and encouragement to other women facing the disease, and reveals her generous charity donation.

The author promised to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month by giving one-fifth of her book earnings throughout October to the Susan G. Komen breast cancer organisation.

She wrote, "As you may have recently heard, I revealed that I have been LIVING life to the fullest with Stage 4 Breast Cancer for the past six and a half years. With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, my message is this: Early detection can save lives! Get regular mammograms, and/or tell your loved ones too...

"Even if you've been screened, and you have a gut feeling that something in your body is off, get a second opinion!"

Jackie also advised anyone with the illness to remain positive, adding, "Cancer does not have to be a death sentence! You, or someone you love, can live an extraordinary life regardless. Be kind and be grateful. Never underestimate the power of your mind.

"Embrace what you love, and LIVE life to the fullest, as tomorrow is not promised to any of us. Whatever your pain or struggle in life, don't allow it to turn you into a victim... let your battle turn you into someone else's hero!...

"For the month of October I will donate 20 per cent of my self-published book sales... with proceeds going to the Susan G. Komen Foundation... Stay healthy, stay lucky and take chances!"