Former Coronation Street star Tracy Shaw has revealed the sad news that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
The actor played Maxine Peacock between 1995 and 2003, before the character was famously murdered by Richard Hillman. More recently, she appeared in the indie film Finding My Voice with EastEnders’ Michelle Ryan.
On her Instagram, she shared a post with the caption, “My diagnosis of breast cancer. So the journey begins…” and a video going into more detail.
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“I have come on just to explain a situation that is happening in my life”, she said in the video.
“I have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Originally I was going to be having surgery in two weeks, but because my results have come back that I am HER2 positive, it means I have to have chemo for five months.
“Then [there is] hopefully surgery to have lumps removed and take the nymph glands out so they can do some more tests. And possibly more surgery before radiotherapy.”
She thanked people for messaging her to check how she was after not being present, something she put down to Lent, and noted that spending time away from technology helped deal with the diagnosis.
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“Now I am in a 12 step programme and I am open about that,” Shaw continued. “I am recovered from many addictions… You name it, I’ve been addicted to it and recovered from it.”
She also thanked all the friends she has all over the country and the world who are supporting her through this process, though admits it’s not been easy coming to terms with the diagnosis.
Shaw then thanked Royal Berkshire Hospital and everyone who has ever raised money for cancer charities, and sent her support to any women who have had or currently have breast cancer.
If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Macmillan Cancer Support, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.