EastEnders will explore a blood cancer storyline involving the character Denise Fox.<\/p>\n
The BBC soap opera will see the salon manager, played by Diane Parish, diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.<\/p>\n
After experiencing unexplained tiredness, Denise undergoes a number of tests before receiving her diagnosis.<\/p>\n
The storyline will play out across the rest of the year.<\/p>\n
EastEnders has worked closely with the charity Blood Cancer UK to ensure the story is portrayed as accurately and sensitively as possible.<\/p>\n
Ben Wadey, executive producer at EastEnders, said: “It was vital to us that Denise’s storyline is portrayed with sensitivity and care, and we’re grateful to Blood Cancer UK for their advice in helping us tell this story accurately.<\/p>\n
“As viewers follow Denise, we hope to shine a light on the realities and challenges of an acute myeloid leukaemia diagnosis and the impact it has on the person affected and those around them.”<\/p>\n
According to the charity, blood cancer is caused by changes (mutations) in the DNA within the blood cells.<\/p>\n
Leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma are some of the most common types.<\/p>\n
Helen Rowntree, Chief Executive of Blood Cancer UK, added: “It’s been a privilege advising the EastEnders team to ensure Denise’s storyline reflects the real experiences of people living with blood cancer and those who care for them.<\/p>\n
“Blood cancers, which include leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, do not discriminate, yet experiences and outcomes can vary significantly, including by ethnicity.<\/p>\n
“Being black and living with an aggressive blood cancer like acute myeloid leukaemia can bring additional challenges.<\/p>\n
“We hope viewers gain a greater understanding of blood cancer’s impact, and we’re pleased this issue is being highlighted on a powerful platform, helping make a ‘hidden’ cancer more visible.”<\/p>\n
EastEnders airs on RT\u00c9 One and BBC One Monday to Thursday.<\/p>\n