EastEnders star Heather Peace has shared that both she and her wife Ellie Dickinson are battling breast cancer in a tragic statement.
The 50 year-old actor, known for her role as Eve Sopal-Unwin in the soap, announced last month she underwent surgery and began chemotherapy after her diagnosis last October.
Ahead of beginning radiotherapy, Heather revealed that her wife Ellie was given the same tragic diagnosis earlier this year.
Speaking to the Mirror, she said: “Her breast cancer was a smaller, aggressive lump, so she had a lumpectomy and then radiotherapy.
“Of course, then I come along with my 12 cm lump, absolutely ginormous, and mastectomy, chemotherapy, just about to go into radiotherapy.
“She's like ‘Even that you have to do bigger.’ It's like ‘Hold my beer.’”
The couple, who have two children together - Annie, 10, and eight-year-old twins, Jesse and Lola - said the news was overwhelming and there was “no processing.”
Heather said that due to her busy EastEnders’ schedule, she was initially hesitant to see a doctor after noticing a change in her nipple.
Wife Ellie pushed her to get checked immediately, leading to the actress’s diagnosis a short three hours after her appointment.
In May, she took to Instagram to announce she completed chemotherapy and feels “very lucky” after months of treatment.
Alongside a video, she wrote, “This video is an important part of my recent journey, which I wanted to share with you.
“I've been on quite a road for many months now. I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of October.
“Since then, I’ve undergone surgery and recovery over the Christmas period, and today my chemotherapy journey ended. To conclude – I’ve just picked up my medal.”
The video shows the actress, who kept working on EastEnders throughout parts of her treatment, having a wig fitted on set. In the video, she thanked the production team and the support she received during the process.
“There have been so many positives,' she said. “Thank you to the whole EE team for going above and beyond. Particularly our amazing makeup team.
“And to Alex Rouss for the original wig and (stylist) Linda for the spot on cut. I’ve felt totally supported by you all.'
Heather also shared her appreciation for her family, praising her wife Ellie and their three daughters for their love and encouragement.
She said: “There have been so many positives… Just trying to appreciate every moment of them.”
Heather thanked the medical staff who cared for her.
“Thank you to the NHS. You are wonderful, skilled people. You treated me efficiently. You gave me dignity and showed me kindness. It’s so appreciated,” she said.
Heather concluded her post by reflecting on how her health fight had changed her, adding: “Life feels very different now, but it’s wonderful.
“I will continue to cherish and be grateful for all I am blessed with. I feel very lucky.”
