Coronation Street legend Tracy Shaw has revealed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer, telling fans that “the journey begins” as she prepares for months of treatment.
The 52-year-old actress, best known for playing Maxine Peacock on the ITV soap, shared the emotional update on Instagram, explaining that she is due to begin five months of chemotherapy after doctors discovered HER2 in her cells.
Tracy wrote alongside a video: “My diagnosis of breast cancer. So the journey begins ….. Love to everyone who is also going through this journey, looking forward to hearing from you all, especially you amazing survivors.”
The former Corrie favourite said she had initially been due to undergo surgery in two weeks, but specialists at the Royal Berkshire Hospital advised chemotherapy first after further tests.
She hopes that once the chemotherapy is complete, she will be able to have surgery to remove lumps and lymph glands for more testing. Further surgery and radiotherapy could follow.
Tracy admitted she has already struggled with losing some of her hair, but said she remains grateful for the chance to fight the disease, adding: “I am truly grateful that I have this opportunity to hopefully be free from cancer as well.”
The actress also opened up about her past battles, revealing she is currently in a daily 12-step programme and has recovered from “many addictions”, including anorexia, bulimia, alcoholism and drugs.
She thanked friends in fellowships around the world for their support, as well as fans who had messaged her after she stepped away from social media for Lent.
Famous friends rushed to support her. Samia Longchambon wrote: “Sending love to you Tracy.” Sally Ann Matthews added: “Love you baby girl x.”
Tracy became a household name after joining Coronation Street in 1995 as Maxine Peacock. Her character’s dramatic storylines included affairs, marriage to Ashley Peacock, motherhood and her shocking death at the hands of Richard Hillman.
Since leaving the soap, Tracy has taken on theatre work and smaller TV roles, but for many Corrie fans, she remains one of Weatherfield’s most memorable stars.
