Coronation Street actress Vicky Myers has spoken about her battle with skin cancer, revealing that the diagnosis in 2010 forced her to reassess her life. The 49-year-old, who plays DS Lisa Swain, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma on her calf and underwent treatment and reconstructive surgery. She said she had been in a poor state of mental health before the diagnosis, but the experience gave her a new perspective on what truly matters.
Reflecting on that period, Myers said: "I was in a poor state of mental health because I was trying to juggle an awful lot of things. Then the diagnosis happened and I realised what I would have given to have that time back." She added that the fear of not experiencing moments such as her daughter's wedding or even another autumn helped re-centre her mind on what was important.
Her on-screen character is currently at the centre of a dramatic storyline involving a proposal from Carla Connor, played by Alison King. Carla plans to ask Lisa to marry her and seeks permission from Lisa's daughter Betsy. However, the plans are disrupted by neighbour David Platt, who has been at odds with Lisa since the family moved in. Myers said Lisa wants to move forward and be happy, but the proposal is postponed.
Meanwhile, Lisa is drawn back into the mystery surrounding the death of her late wife, Becky. A new lead emerges when she and Carla come face to face with a woman named Tia Wardley. Myers explained that Lisa is extremely suspicious and feels compelled to investigate further, despite the emotional toll it could take on her relationship with Carla. "She doesn't want to lie to her but she doesn't want her to be weighed down with it all," Myers said.
Off-screen, Myers, who has a 28-year-old daughter named Meghan, is touched by the positive fan response to the 'Swarla' relationship. She said the portrayal of a blended family and a lesbian couple is important for representation, and she is proud to be part of it. "It shows how much Lisa was needed," she said, adding that she hopes the storyline is seen as authentic rather than a stunt.
