Former Coronation Street star Tracy Shaw has emotionally admitted there is 'nothing normal about life' as she undergoes treatment for breast cancer. The actress, 52, who played Maxine Peacock on the ITV soap from 1995 to 2003, appeared on Thursday's edition of Lorraine to give an update on her condition.
Speaking to Lorraine Kelly, Shaw said: 'Unless you've been there, you don't know how awful it really feels because there's nothing normal about your life anymore when you're going through chemo.' Despite the gruelling treatment, she considers herself 'very lucky' and is using her platform to call for increased government funding for cancer research.
Shaw, who has also appeared in theatre and dramas such as Mile High and Casualty, said: 'There's so many people diagnosed with a lot worse than I am... If we had more funding, government, and more funding for the likes of cancer and injections and things that move forward, we would stand more of a chance for ladies and gentleman to live today.'
Her appearance comes days after she tearfully admitted she had 'no strength left' following a trip to A&E. She described feeling 'as vulnerable as a baby' due to the side effects of chemotherapy, which have left her unable to taste food and reliant on a diet of eggs, plain crisps and bread.
Shaw, who has two adult sons, praised the support of her neighbour Robbie and the online community of women who have shared advice. She said: 'Thank you, ladies for saving my life today.'
