TRACY SHAW SHARES IMPACT OF BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS ON ITV CHAT SHOW

Tracy Shaw, who portrayed Maxine Peacock on Coronation Street between 1995 and 2003, has discussed her breast cancer diagnosis on the ITV chat show Lorraine. Shaw revealed earlier this year that she had been diagnosed with the disease and has since documented her treatment journey on social media. She told the show's host that sharing her experience has prompted messages from others facing similar diagnoses. Shaw stated that speaking publicly about her condition was important because millions of people experience the same disease.

Shaw detailed the physical effects of chemotherapy in posts shared on Instagram during her treatment. She described experiencing significant side effects including oral thrush, weakness and sensitivity to noise and people. On the tenth day following a chemotherapy session, Shaw made a hospital visit to accident and emergency and spent most of the day sleeping. She explained that chemotherapy damages the body's natural defences, including stomach lining, leaving patients feeling vulnerable. Shaw noted that she remained unable to taste or eat food during this period.

Shaw discussed how a breast cancer diagnosis affects not only the patient but also family members and loved ones. She highlighted that messages she had received came from mothers, sons and various family members concerned about relatives undergoing treatment. Shaw emphasised that everyone connected to a person with cancer is impacted by the diagnosis. She stated that support from others facing similar circumstances had been crucial to her ability to continue coping with her treatment.