Former EastEnders star Cheryl Fergison recently revealed that she had undergone treatment for womb cancer. The actress, best known for her role as Heather Trott on the show, was diagnosed in 2015 and described feeling in “absolute shock”. She underwent a hysterectomy and then experienced early menopause before receiving the all-clear. Fergison only told a few close friends about her diagnosis, including former EastEnders co-stars Dame Barbara Windsor, June Brown, Steve McFadden, and Linda Henry, as well as the late comedian Paul O’Grady, who all offered their support. Dame Barbara even offered financial assistance to Fergison during her treatment.
Fergison explained that she visited her GP after experiencing spotting blood and backache, leading to further tests and a biopsy. She received a stage two cancer diagnosis and underwent a full hysterectomy and radiotherapy. The actress, who has a son from a previous marriage, spoke about the impact the hysterectomy had on her emotionally and physically, as it took away the possibility of having a child with her husband. She encouraged women to listen to their bodies and seek medical help if they have concerns, emphasizing the importance of health.
Fergison shared that she was initially worried about a recurrence of cancer when she experienced backache, but tests confirmed that her initial treatment had been successful. She emphasized the importance of getting checked if there are any concerns, as early detection is key. The most common symptom of womb cancer is unexpected vaginal bleeding, which can occur after menopause, between periods, after sex, or as heavy, irregular periods. Watery or bloody vaginal discharge can also be a symptom. It is important to see a GP to discuss any abnormal bleeding, as not all cases are indicative of womb cancer.
Womb cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer in the UK, with around 9,000 women diagnosed each year. While it most commonly affects women who have gone through menopause and are in their 50s, it can also occur in younger women, although this is less common. Early detection of womb cancer is crucial for successful treatment, and most cases are treatable if found early. Fergison’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical help if needed.
In her interview with OK! magazine, Fergison opened up about her experience with womb cancer and the impact it had on her life. She spoke about the emotional challenges of facing a cancer diagnosis and undergoing treatment, as well as the support she received from her loved ones during that time. Fergison’s story sheds light on the realities of living with and overcoming cancer, and she hopes that sharing her experience will encourage other women to prioritize their health and seek medical assistance if needed. Her message is one of resilience, strength, and the importance of self-care and early detection when it comes to health concerns.
