EastEnders is set to explore a significant health storyline as character Denise Fox will be diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
Diane Parish, who portrays the salon manager, will see her character embark on a challenging journey after experiencing unexplained tiredness, which leads to a series of tests and the eventual diagnosis.
The BBC soap opera will delve into the profound impact of the blood cancer on Denise and her loved ones, with the storyline unfolding across the remainder of the year.
To ensure accuracy and sensitivity, the show has collaborated closely with the national charity, Blood Cancer UK.
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.
“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.”
According to the charity, blood cancer is caused by changes (mutations) in the DNA within the blood cells.
Each year in the UK, more than 40,000 people are diagnosed with a blood cancer with leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma some of the most common types.
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.
“Blood cancers, which include leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma, do not discriminate yet experiences and outcomes can vary significantly, including by ethnicity.
“Being black and living with an aggressive blood cancer like acute myeloid leukaemia can bring additional challenges.
“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.”
BBC Three will also host a special night dedicated to Denise Fox as the soap opera marks her character’s 20th anniversary on 11 May.
Parish first appeared in Walford for six months in 1998 as the singer Lola Christie but the actor later returned in 2006 as the feisty salon owner, Denise.
Airing on BBC Three, a selection of EastEnders episodes will air from 8pm to 11pm, followed by the documentary 'Manosphere', which Parish fronts.
The episodes will highlight some of Denise's biggest storylines, including exposing her serial killer husband, Lucas Johnson (Don Gilet) and when she became entwined with the murder of Keanu Taylor (Danny Walters).
Fans will also be able to rewatch the time Denise had to choose between Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) and Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara).
EastEnders airs on BBC One every Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm.
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