EastEnders' Heather Peace diagnosed with cancer and has had chemotherapy

Wales Online

14-05-2025

EastEnders' Heather Peace diagnosed with cancer and has had chemotherapy
EastEnders star Heather Peace, who plays Eve Panesar-Unwin on the BBC soap, has revealed she was diagnosed with breast cancer in October and has since had chemotherapy and surgery
Heather Peace opened up about her cancer diagnosis in an Instagram post
(Image: SCOTTISH DAILY RECORD )
Heather Peace, known for her role in EastEnders, bravely revealed her breast cancer diagnosis to fans. The actress, who portrays Eve Panesar-Unwin on the BBC series, has undergone chemotherapy and surgery since discovering her condition several months ago.
Taking to her Instagram, Heather shared a poignant video trying on wigs, alluding to hair loss during her treatment. In an emotional post, she opened up about completing her chemotherapy earlier today, acknowledging the life-changing impact of her ordeal and thanked those who supported her along the way.
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Heather's candid message read: "This video is an important part of my recent journey, which I wanted to share with you. It's been about the #TeamEffort here @bbceastenders. I needed a wig fitting. I've been on quite a road for many months now."
The Mirror reports she further detailed in her Insta caption: "I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of October. Since then I've undergone surgery and recovery over the Christmas period and today my chemotherapy journey ended." For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter
Reflecting on her experience, Heather wrote: "I woke up this morning and it was like the end of the London Marathon; I'd turned onto The Mall and could see the giant clock and the finish line. To conclude - I've just picked up my medal."
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She continued: "But I'm forever changed. During this time I've narrowed my world. I've had the most precious time with my wife Ellie and our 3 girls; Annie, Jessie and Lola. Just trying to appreciate every moment of them. I've stayed still.
"I've found joy in the simplest of things. Interactions with others have felt honest and real because I've had no capacity for small talk. It has felt like such a personal shift. There have been so many positives."
Heather then expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her, writing: "Thank you to the whole EE team for going above and beyond. Particularly our amazing makeup team. And to Alex Rouss for the original wig and Linda for the spot on cut. I've felt totally supported by you all.
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"Thank you to all of the friends in my local community who've been there for me and my family at the drop of a hat (you know who you are). Thank you to the NHS. You are wonderful, skilled people. You treated me efficiently. You gave me dignity and showed me kindness. It's so appreciated."
The actor concluded: "Life feels very different now and it's wonderful. I will continue to cherish and be grateful for all I am blessed with. I feel very lucky. With love, Heather."
Heather's EastEnders colleagues were quick to show their support in the comments section on her post. Lacey Turned wrote: "My superhero! ! Love you always mate" while Balvinda Sopal shared three heart emojis.
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Diane Parish, who portrays Denise Fox, added: "Tough and courageously vulnerable. That makes a true warrior. Admire you more than you could know. We got you all the way!".
Kellie Bright commented: "I've said it before and I'll say it again.... WARRIOR WOMAN! ! ! ! Love the bones of you."
Emma Barton, known for her role as Honey Mitchell, said: "Love you so much, you beautiful, strong, mental, brave lady... You're frigging Ace! ! !".
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Ellie Dadd, aka Amy Mitchell, praised Heather: "Such an amazing person inside and out, truly inspirational."
Navin Chowdhry, who appeared as Nish Panesar, expressed: "All the love in the world Heather. You are glowing. And what a magical team to have by your side."