Denise Fox's hopes of a stem-cell transplant from her newly discovered half-brother Darnell Larson were shattered in tonight's episode of EastEnders, as he revealed he is not a close enough match to donate. The news leaves Denise, played by Diane Parish, facing a difficult decision about her cancer treatment.
Denise was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) earlier this year. Despite treatment, her condition worsened, and she was placed in a medically induced coma last month. During that time, Kim Fox tracked down Darnell, who agreed to be tested as a potential stem-cell donor.
Crushing news for Denise
In tonight's instalment, Darnell broke the news to Denise that he wasn't a close enough match and therefore couldn't donate his stem-cells. When he asked what she planned to do next, Jack Branning answered for her, declaring she'd continue with the next round of chemotherapy and stay positive.
Denise tried to put on a brave face, assuring Darnell it wasn't his fault, noting the doctors had warned her he might not be a match as they are only half-siblings. However, after excusing herself from the room, heartbroken Denise broke down in the hallway as the reality of her situation sank in.
Questioning treatment
Denise had pointed out to Jack and Darnell that she'd heard finding donors for black people can be difficult, but she had allowed herself to hope Darnell would be a match, making the news even more upsetting. Despite Jack's encouragement to stay positive, it became clear Denise was having second thoughts about continuing with chemo, as she researched what happens to someone's body when they stop cancer treatment.
The episode leaves viewers wondering whether Denise will decide to stop her treatment altogether and how her family will react if she does.
