FORMER EastEnders star Samantha Womack has thanked her fans for support while sharing an update on her cancer treatment.
The 49-year-old actress announced in August this year she had been diagnosed with breast cancer as part of her tribute to Olivia Newton-John.
Samantha Womack has shared an update about her cancer treatment
The actress shared her diagnosis in August this year
Samantha has been supported by her on-screen sister, Rita Simons
The Grease star died that month aged 73, 30 years after her first diagnosis.
In a new video shared to her Instagram page, Samantha – famed for playing Ronnie Mitchell on the BBC soap – has said she starts chemotherapy tomorrow after having surgery to remove the lump.
In a video, Samantha sported baby pink hair as she quietly told the camera: “I just want to say thank you to everyone who has been sending me love after I shared my story about battling with breast cancer.
“So just to tell you where I’m at, I’ve had my operation – had a lumpectomy and lymph node removal- and I am now going to start my first session of chemotherapy tomorrow. But I have read all of your stories and messages. They’ve blown me away, genuinely.
“I just wanted to say thank you, I’m very humbled by the fact that everyone has reached out and… yeah, so I’ll keep you posted. But yeah, just a huge thank you and sending you all lots of love.”
Her latest message has seen a new influx of support as she enters the next stage of treatment, not least of which from her ex-Eastenders co-stars, led by Rita Simons who played her on-screen sister Roxy Mitchell.
“I love you so very much my absolute soldier,” Rita wrote, with other familiar faces quickly following suit.
Tamzin Outhwaite, who played Mel Owen on the soap until 2019, wrote: “Oh darling. Sending you love, light and positive energy. You are so strong and I know you will override all your obstacles.”
Kacey Ainsworth, who played ‘Little’ Mo Slater, added: “I wish you huge love for [tomorrow] on your chemotherapy. I’m sure there is some wonderful advice from those who have walked this path. You are a lovely human being much love and light.”
Denise Van Outen wrote: “Sending so much love to you Sam,” which was echoed by Gaby Roslin, who said: “Sending you so much love and huge enormous kisses and millions of hugs my lovely.”
Cheryl Fergison, who famously played Heather Trott on the series until 2012, added: “Stay strong you beautiful lady.”
Samantha played Ronnie Mitchell on the soap for 10 years alongside co-star Rita, as a fire and ice pair of sisters who had their fair share of troubles.
Just like they entered the show together, the sisters were both killed off in a tragic story on New Year’s Day 2017, when they died on Ronnie’s wedding day to Jack Branning.
After seeing her sister drowning in the pool at the reception, Ronnie jumped in to save Roxy, only to get tangled in her own wedding dress and drowning as well.
Samantha is famed for playing the beloved Ronnie Mitchell on Eastenders
The actress has received unwavering support from her co-stars
