Cheryl Fergison Opens Up About Stroke Recovery Journey on BBC Breakfast
Former EastEnders star Cheryl Fergison has shared an emotional and candid update on her health following a life-changing stroke. The 60-year-old actress, best known for her role as Heather Trott on the BBC soap, appeared on BBC Breakfast on Thursday, January 29, to discuss her ongoing recovery with presenters Charlie Stayt and Naga Munchetty.
A Year of Challenges and Resilience
Cheryl suffered a severe stroke in May last year, which left her unable to walk or speak initially. Reflecting on the past year, she described it as "a mighty year", noting that it included writing her autobiography, turning 60, and the stroke itself. She attributed the medical emergency to a buildup of stress over the years, mentioning that her blood pressure was always high and highlighting the pressures of the entertainment industry, which she described as "feast or famine".
During the interview, Cheryl explained, "I'm getting there slowly, I'm recovering slowly. It's a long process but my mind is positive now. It wasn't in the beginning but it is now. I'm happy to be here, to be quite honest." She emphasised the importance of a positive mindset in her rehabilitation, which has been supported by her stroke team and the Stroke Association.
The Night of the Stroke and Its Aftermath
Recalling the night of the stroke, Cheryl mentioned going to bed with a terrible headache at the back of her head. She woke up to use the bathroom and fell on the floor, prompting her to contact her son, who immediately suspected a stroke and called an ambulance. "It literally changed my life from that day on," she said, detailing how she could speak but struggled to formulate words in the hospital and had to relearn basic functions.
Her right side was particularly affected, and she could not walk for months. Through perseverance and professional help, she has been making steady progress. Cheryl encouraged viewers to recognise their own vulnerability, stating, "If you want to live a healthy, long life, you need to start thinking about your stress levels and everything [to] calm you down."
Looking Ahead to New Projects
Despite the challenges, Cheryl remains optimistic and is excited about returning to her passion for acting. She discussed her upcoming play, Living the Life of Riley, which is set to tour the UK next month. "I'm going to do the thing I love the most and be in my industry again and I am so thrilled to be doing it," she concluded, showcasing her determination to move forward.
This heartfelt update serves as a reminder of the importance of health awareness and the resilience required in recovery from serious medical events.
