Coronation Street actress Tracy Shaw, known for playing Maxine Peacock, has shared an emotional update as she nears the end of her chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer.
The 53-year-old, who announced her diagnosis earlier this year, has been undergoing intense chemotherapy over the past few months. In a recent Instagram post, she expressed gratitude for the support she has received while acknowledging the tough side effects.
A message of gratitude
Shaw wrote: "Grateful everyday for moments of Joy. Thankyou for every message of encouragement on this rollercoaster coaster of a journey." She continued: "Living with the side effects daily can be tough, but together we share a life-changing experience to help others. I believe more in the spirit and soul, our flesh will recover... Our bodies are simply amazing."
She added: "Thankyou for lifting me on the days I struggle with being blasted with chemo, not looking forward to the last two rounds. More importantly im so grateful to have been given opportunity to live, learn, and grow into my authentic self. Happy weekend everyone."
Fan support and recent struggles
Shaw, who has focused on theatre since leaving the soap and had a brief pop career with a cover of Lonnie Gordon's "Happenin' All Over Again," received an outpouring of supportive messages from followers. One wrote: "Stay strong beautiful soul positive vibes always," while another said: "Sending you all the love and light xxx."
A third commented: "You started this journey with such sadness and fear, you probably still are, but you are growing and living it each day and seem to be able to break the smiles. These journeys are long and arduous but somehow you find that strength to show you can still smile and enjoy some small moments."
Just days earlier, Shaw had candidly told fans she was feeling "absolutely rubbish" after her fourth round of chemo. She wrote: "Phew round 4 hit hard! I've chose to show the moments of Joy I experience, hoping they bring light to those in the same position. Amidst this pain and suffering, I've had to dig deep into the constant spiritual growth, to creation and its wonders."
Her time on Coronation Street
Shaw played Maxine Peacock on Coronation Street from 1995 to 2003. Her character was married to butcher Ashley and had a son, Joshua. In a dramatic storyline, Maxine was killed by serial killer Richard Hillman after returning home to find him standing over Emily Bishop's body.
