Cain Dingle is about to feel as though he has taken several steps backwards in Emmerdale, as he receives gut-wrenching news about his cancer.
Cain was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year. He endured an agonising wait for surgery, which was prolonged after being hit by a car. The beloved character underwent his operation and is now trying to come to terms with the side effects.
One of the challenges Cain has faced is a lack of full bladder control. Experiencing embarrassing mishaps hurt his pride, leading him to avoid places without easy toilet access. After a conversation with Liam Cavanagh, Cain made progress by purchasing leak-proof underwear. He recognised Liam's valid point about not letting post-surgery ruin his life.
The next day, Cain returned to work at the garage. Feeling apprehensive, he planned to focus only on paperwork, but Kammy Hadiq encouraged him to get back under the bonnet. Next week, Cain makes more progress by deciding to attend Kyle Winchester's swearing-in ceremony at the cadets.
In the village hall, Kyle takes the Army Cadet oath but is saddened to see Cain's chair empty. Unbeknownst to Kyle, Cain is rushing into the Woolpack toilets after noticing a wet patch on his trousers. Charles Anderson supports him with a pair of clean trousers. Cain feels humiliated but accepts the help, grateful for Charles and Bob Hope's discretion. Cain returns to the ceremony and confesses his accident to Kyle, who reassures him that he is not embarrassed and is glad Cain came back.
That evening, Moira Dingle tries to reassure Cain when he says his health issues make him feel 'less of a man'. The next day, the couple visits the hospital for an update. Unfortunately, Ms Rhodes shares worrying news: although the surgery was successful, tests indicate it is highly likely the cancer has spread slightly.
Devastated by not receiving the all-clear, Cain spirals further when Ms Rhodes tells him he needs further treatment but must wait months for his body to heal from the prostatectomy. Additionally, Cain discovers there is a chance radiotherapy could make his current side effects permanent. Cain and Moira decide not to tell their children yet, but family secrets are soon revealed.
It is one thing after another for Cain and Moira. How will they move forward after this latest development?
