The EastEnders star says she feels “very lucky” and shares that her chemotherapy journey has ended
BY YASMIN VINCE, IMAGE BY KIERON MCCARRON/BBC
Beloved lesbian actor Heather Peace has revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer last October. Sharing a video of a wig fitting to Instagram yesterday (13 May), the EastEnders star shared her diagnosis and that her chemotherapy journey was over.
In the caption, the actor wrote: “I’ve been on quite a road for many months now. I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of October.” She added that she went through surgery and recovery over the Christmas period.
“And today my chemotherapy journey ended,” Heather continued. She likened the experience to finishing the London Marathon. “I’d turned onto The Mall and could see the giant clock & the finish line. To conclude – I’ve just picked up my medal.”
As well as treatment, Heather has been spending time with her family. “During this time I’ve narrowed my world. I’ve had the most precious time with my wife Ellie and our 3 girls; Annie, Jessie & Lola. Just trying to appreciate every moment of them.”
She has also been continuing to work and instrumental in broadening LGBTQIA representation on television. Over the New Year period, her EastEnders character, Eve Unwin, was part of a groundbreaking lesbian storyline on the show. Her wedding to Suki Panesar was the first lesbian wedding to appear on the show.
Several of Heather’s EastEnders co-stars commented messages of support, including Lacey Turner, who plays Eve’s ex-wife Stacey Slater: “My superhero!! Love you always mate.”
Breast Cancer Now wrote Heather a message of support and highlighted how common breast cancer is. “We know that receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be devastating, and every 10 minutes in the UK someone hears this life-changing news.”
Heather ended her post by saying: “Life feels very different now and it’s wonderful. I will continue to cherish and be grateful for all I am blessed with. I feel very lucky.”
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK. You can find information on symptoms and what to do if you think you have breast cancer on the NHS website. If you have breast cancer and need support, you can contact Breast Cancer Now, OUTpatients and CoppaFeel.
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