EastEnders stars send support to ‘warrior’ Heather Peace after actress reveals cancer diagnosis
The Eve Panesar-Unwin actress opened up about her health battle
The actress has been on the BBC soap since 2021(Image: BBC)
A number of EastEnders stars have sent their support to Heather Peace, calling her a ‘warrior’ after the actress revealed her cancer diagnosis.
Heather has been playing Eve Panesar-Unwin in the BBC soap since 2021, with viewers following her romance and eventual marriage to Suki Panesar
Also appearing in Holby City and Waterloo Road, Heather informed her fans on Monday (May 12) that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Already undergoing treatment, the 49-year-old said in the emotional post that she’s ‘been on quite a road for many months now’.
She captioned a clip she posted: “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.”
Initially diagnosed in October 2023, Heather said that she is ‘forever changed’ and has has ‘narrowed her world’, while continuing to work on EastEnders.
“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. I’ve stayed still.
EastEnders star Heather Pearce has told fans of her cancer diagnosis(Image: Heather Pearce Instagram)
“I’ve found joy in the simplest of things. Interactions with others have felt honest and real because I’ve had no capacity for small talk. It has felt like such a personal shift,” she said.
Uploading a video of some of her moments working on EastEnders, Heather said there ‘have been so many positives’ about her health journey.
She continued: “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…
“There have been so many positives… Just trying to appreciate every moment of them.” The actor also extended heartfelt thanks to 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.”
Saying ‘life feels very different now, but wonderful’, Heather promised to ‘continue to cherish and be grateful’ for everything she is ‘blessed with’.
The comments section of Heather’s post saw a number of her Albert Square colleagues commending her for her honesty and sending their support.
Kellie Bright said: “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…. WARRIOR WOMAN!!!! Love the bones of you.” Lacey Turner added: “My superhero !! Love you always mate.”
Navin Chowdhry wrote: “All the love in the world Heather. You are Glowing!! And what a magical team to have by your side.” Molly Rainford stated: “Love you lots Heather.”
Diane Parish commented: “Tough and courageously vulnerable. That makes a true warrior. Admire you more than you could know. We got you all the way!” Emma Barton posted: “Love you so much, you beautiful, strong, mental, brave lady… You’re frigging Ace!!!”
