Almost all of Denise Fox's (Diane Parish) family and fellow EastEnders residents are unaware of how ill she truly is. She plans to keep it that way, no matter the cost. The beloved Queen Vic regular has had her world turned upside down after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), an aggressive form of blood cancer. The diagnosis could not have come at a worse time.
Family Crisis Takes Priority
The Fox clan is rallying around Chelsea Fox (Zaraah Abrahams) after her young son Jordan was severely injured by an accidental hit-and-run with Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) at the wheel. For this reason, Denise made the heartbreaking decision to keep her diagnosis to herself to prevent her family from worrying. Only two of her closest confidantes know the truth: her dear friend Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter) and Jack Branning (Scott Maslen).
Denise Refuses Treatment
In a recent episode, the story took a heartbreaking turn when doctors told a shocked Denise that she must be admitted immediately for a week of intense chemotherapy, followed by three weeks in hospital to prevent infections during treatment. However, Denise was determined to support Chelsea no matter what, especially given the worrying development that Jordan may never fully recover from his injuries. She completely refused to start the medical sessions, despite Jack's desperate pleas. Jack broke down in tears as he begged Denise to change her mind. But in the face of all medical advice, Denise ignored Jack and the doctors and chose to support her family, even in her increasingly weakened state.
Jack Confides in Phil
It is understandable why Jack cares so much about Denise. The two have enjoyed a tumultuous on-again, off-again relationship packed with heartache, infidelity, and passion from 2019 up until the present. They might not be married or together anymore, but there will always be a part of Jack's heart that belongs to Denise. This is why it makes sense that Jack would confide in the one person on the Square who might understand: Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden). The EastEnders legend has a complicated relationship with Denise himself. They also had a tumultuous relationship spanning decades of Walford history, marked by dramatic clashes, complicated family ties, and a shared child.
Phil's Arrival Stuns Denise
Phil might not be Jack's biggest fan, but the two old rivals are drawn together by their mutual ties on the Square. They both care about Denise, and upcoming scenes will see Jack bare his soul to Phil and confess Denise's diagnosis, with explosive consequences. Denise ignores repeated calls from Walford General, determined to start treatment on her own terms. Meanwhile, Jack confides in Phil, and together they consider how to get through to her. What will Phil do? As the Fox-Truemans rally together to find ways to support Chelsea and Jordan, Denise notices Kim's (Tameka Empson) ring, prompting her to reveal her and Howie's engagement. The family agrees to celebrate later in The Vic, though Chelsea notices Denise is distracted. Later, Denise is stunned when Phil turns up knowing all about her diagnosis. Despite his concerns, she throws him out. Can anyone get through to Denise before it is too late?
