EastEnders' Heather Peace diagnosed with breast cancer as she undergoes surgery

Actor has announced she's been diagnosed with . The cast member has shared with fans that she's had chemotherapy and surgery since she received the news months ago.

Heather, 49 - who plays Eve Panesar-Unwin on the show - opened up about the diagnosis in a post on this evening. It included footage of her trying on a wig in a dressing room and she referenced losing hair at one point.

Alongside the video, she wrote about the diagnosis and shared that she finished chemotherapy earlier today. She said her life has been "forever changed" by her experience and expressed gratitude for the support she's had.

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Heather wrote: "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."

She continued in the caption of the post: "I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of October. Since then I've undergone surgery and recovery over the period and today my chemotherapy journey ended."

Writing about that experience, she said: "I woke up this morning and it was like the end of the ; I'd turned onto The Mall and could see the giant clock & the finish line. To conclude - I've just picked up my medal."

She added: "But I'm forever changed. During this time I've narrowed my . I've had the most precious time with my wife Ellie and our 3 girls; Annie, Jessie & 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 went on to express gratitude to those who have supported her, writing: "Thank you to the whole EE team for going above & beyond. Particularly our amazing makeup team. And to Alex Rouss for the original wig & Linda for the spot on cut. I've felt totally supported by you all.

"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 . 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 co-stars instantly rushed to the comment section of her upload, with Lacey Turned penning: "My superhero!! Love you always mate." Balvinda Sopal added three heart emojis. Meanwhile, Denise Fox actress Diane Parish penned: "Tough and courageously vulnerable. That makes a true warrior. Admire you more than you could know. We got you all the way!"

Kellie Bright typed: "I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…. WARRIOR WOMAN!!!! Love the bones of you." , who plays Honey Mitchell said: "Love you so much, you beautiful, strong, mental, brave lady… You’re frigging Ace!!!"

Amy Mitchell actress Ellie Dadd gushed: "Such an amazing person inside and out, truly inspirational." Navin Chowdhry, who played Nish Panesar commented: "All the love in the world Heather. You are glowing. And what a magical team to have by your side."

The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

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