Libby Fox (Belinda Owusu) has confirmed her exit from EastEnders, but her departure is overshadowed by the tragic health battle of her mother, Denise Fox (Diane Parish). Denise, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), initially kept her condition secret, revealing it only to Yolande Trueman (Angela Wynter). Despite doctors urging immediate treatment, Denise delayed entering the hospital after her grandson Jordan (Jahsaiah Williams) was knocked down by Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt), wanting to support her daughter Chelsea (Zaraah Abrahams).
Denise's Treatment and Hidden Struggles
After pressure from Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) and Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), Denise agreed to a month of isolation in hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, Libby tried to help Chelsea financially by contacting Jordan's paternal grandmother, Sheila Atkins (Sheila Ruskin), who had been sending cheques that Chelsea never cashed. This caused friction between the sisters, but allowed Sheila to enter Jordan's life, despite her claims of no lasting connection to her son, the serial killer Gray Atkins (Toby-Alexander Smith). Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) and Howie Danes (Delroy Hugh Atkinson) interrogated Sheila but were deceived by her act, though Kim feared Denise's return.
Treatment Failure and a Second Round
Next week, Denise finishes her initial treatment and returns home, but the family's joy is short-lived. The treatment has not worked as hoped, and she needs another round. She is further devastated when she learns that a friend has passed away at the hospital. Denise spots Sheila in the Square with Jordan, leading to a confrontation after she banishes Chelsea and Libby. Later, Denise admits to Jack that her treatment failed but forbids him from telling the rest of the family, as she is focused on throwing Libby a leaving party.
According to the article, Denise's priority remains Libby's celebration, even as she hides her ongoing battle. The question remains whether Libby will learn of her mother's continued struggle before she departs Albert Square.
