There have been a lot of great TV shows over the years, but only a handful that inspired people to think, to question, to feel and to laugh the way that M*A*S*H did. It’s one of the most honored and long-running programs in TV history, appearing on CBS for 11 seasons from 1972-1983. It featured an incredible ensemble cast and one of the characters that remained for the entire run was Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan, played by Loretta Swit.

These days, Swit is an accomplished artist and author who uses her incredible talents to make a difference. Her latest book, SwitHeart features her paintings and drawings and all proceeds from the book are donated to charities and programs dedicated to ending animal suffering and cruelty.

Swit checks in with Growing Bolder about her passion for activism, something that has not been diminished by age. Now 80, Swit explains why she grows more engaged each year, including by continuing to act. She discussed her latest projects, two theater productions, including a play about Eleanor Roosevelt. Find out why she thinks it’s significant not only for her industry but for women to keep working into her 80s.