Coronation Street actress Tracy Shaw broke down in tears as she delivered an emotional update on her breast cancer battle, revealing her chemotherapy has not produced the hoped-for results.
Tracy, 52, best known for playing Maxine Peacock on the soap, was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year. In a video shared on Instagram, she said her chemotherapy treatment is not progressing as anticipated.
Scans Show Mixed Results
Earlier this week she told social media followers she would have additional scans to determine if the illness had spread. In her latest post, she reported there was some good news but ultimately the treatment had not been as effective as she hoped, despite leaving her feeling physically much improved.
Speaking in the video, she said: "Good morning, everyone. So as I told you all, I had my ultrasounds today to find out if the lesions had shrunk. I also needed to check a lump that I'd found on the other breast, which is on the right breast. The good news is that the lump, well there's actually quite a lot, are all cysts, so that's good news and the lesions on my left breast...erm.."
She continued: "Well, my expectations were that judging by what personally I've gone through and what the chemo does, I thought they'd shrunk but basically they've gone from being circular to oval but not really shrunk in size."
Emotional Plea for a Miracle
Tracy, who also had a brief music career with the single Happenin' All Over Again and appeared in Casualty and Doctors, was seen crying as she wished for a miracle. She added: "I don't know...maybe, maybe a few more rounds will be all it takes but I know they can't operate until they shrink it. I thought I'd give you a live update but I was just expecting some miracularlous miracle. But maybe it's to come. All my love to you all."
Support from Fans and Friends
Following her update, she received backing from friends and supporters. Sally Ann Matthews, who played Jenny Bradley on Coronation Street, encouraged her to stay positive, posting: "Stick in there kidda xxxxx." Drag Race star Baga Chipz commented: "I'm giving you the biggest hug. Stay strong hun [heart emoji]."
One supporter wrote: "I'm so sorry you didn't get the results you wanted to hear. You're such a brave and incredible woman. Your miracle is on its way." Another said: "Sending so much love and strength to you. All your pink sisters are here sending you love and healing!" A third added: "Trust the process, everybody's body works slightly differently so just go with the flow. It's a tough path to walk but you are doing so well. just keep going. Sending healing thoughts your way."
