Hollyoaks star Chelsee Healey has bravely opened up about a devastating health scare that left her completely immobilised and fearing for her career.
The actress, best known for playing Goldie McQueen on the Channel 4 soap, was struck down by a severe case of water retention, a condition so extreme it rendered her unable to walk or even stand.
In a series of candid Instagram stories, the 35-year-old shared her frightening ordeal with her followers. She posted a vulnerable video from her bed, revealing the sheer pain and frustration of her situation.
A Terrifying Ordeal
"I can't walk," Healey confessed to her concerned fans. "My legs have given up. I've got severe water retention, and I can't put any pressure on my legs." The physical pain was matched by a deep emotional worry about her ability to work and provide for her young daughter, Coco.
The actress detailed how the condition crept up on her, leaving her legs feeling heavy and unbearably painful. The swelling became so pronounced that walking was simply not an option, confining her to her bed and forcing her to rely on others for help.
The Road to Recovery
Thankfully, Healey's update included a positive turn. After seeking medical attention, she was prescribed water tablets to help alleviate the severe swelling. In a later video, she showed her followers the positive results, wiggling her toes and expressing her immense relief.
"The tablets are working," she announced, her spirits visibly lifted. "I've been for a wee about 50 times, but I can finally move my legs. I've just got to get the swelling down." Her message ended with a note of gratitude for the support she received and a focus on her recovery.