Former Coronation Street star Tracy Shaw has updated fans on her cancer battle, revealing she has shaved her head as she prepares for the next phase of treatment. The actress, 52, best known for playing Maxine Peacock on the ITV soap, shared her latest update on Instagram, posing with a shaven head and a smile while petting her dog.
Brave Update on Instagram
In her Instagram post, Shaw wrote: "Next phase. My love to my sons Louis and Luca. You're my everything. Peace, joy and love to everyone." The post quickly garnered support from former co-stars and fans. Sally Dynevor commented: "Beautiful xxx," accompanied by a heart-eyed emoji. Denise Welch also liked the post, while another follower wrote: "Sending all my love, Tracy! Your amazing spirit shines through even stronger. You've got this."
Details of Treatment
Days earlier, Shaw had candidly shared that her first chemotherapy injection had left her feeling drained. In an Instagram clip, she explained: "Yesterday I had my first injection of chemo. It's one which affects my heart, so I have to have my heart checked regularly." She noted that her hair was cut shorter at the time but not yet shaved. She added: "It really wiped me. I don't know if it's because I had to go back into hospital and it's so hot in there. Why doesn't the government invest more in our hospitals?"
She continued: "I'm feeling the effects today. I've taken my first injection to help my immune system. Basically from tomorrow I can't really socialise. My immune system will be really low." Despite the challenges, she remained defiant: "My body is now going to war with that thing in me which doesn't belong in here."
Emotional Journey
Shaw's upbeat message comes weeks after she admitted to having a "good cry" as she contemplated her journey. In an earlier video, she said: "I've not shaved my hair off, I've just put a scarf on. Each morning I wake up and know I have to go into hospital and receive more news. I just think 'I can't go through with this anymore,' but I've not even started my journey."
She added: "50% of me wants to get going. I want to know that the cancer is being dealt with. When I wake up with headaches or feel a twinge in my other boob, I just think 'Oh, it's moving!'"
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Breast Cancer Support.
