Tracy Shaw, the beloved actress who played Maxine Peacock on Coronation Street, has opened up in a heartbreaking new video about the harsh realities of her breast cancer treatment. The 52-year-old revealed she is struggling to cope with the side effects of chemotherapy — admitting she has “no strength left” and feels utterly “vulnerable” after a recent dash to A&E.
Posting on Instagram on Sunday evening, Tracy shared the raw, emotional toll the treatment has taken on her body. “Day 10 after chemo… another trip to A&E,” she said through tears. “Most of the day asleep. I’ve got cream for thrush all over my nose, my mouth, my ears, my head. I’ve been constantly on the toilet, and there’s no strength left. It feels like I’m as vulnerable as a baby.”
An emotional Tracy Shaw said she has ‘no strength left’ after being rushed to A&E after struggling with horrible side effects from chemotherapy
She went on to describe the physical impact of chemotherapy: “Basically, chemo kills everything — including the lining on my stomach. I still can’t taste anything or eat anything. My diet has been six eggs, plain crisps, and plain bread. Today has just been really tough.”
She played Maxine Peacock on Corrie from 1995 to 2003, before she was murdered by serial killer Richard Hillman
Fans rushed to the comment section to share their support: ‘Tracy you are incredible darling, sending you so much love and strength
Tracy also spoke candidly about her support system, thanking her Instagram community and neighbour Robbie for helping her navigate the ordeal. “Without their help, I wouldn’t have managed today,” she admitted. Even with her eldest son away at a wedding, she managed to make it to A&E — though not without setbacks when her prescription wasn’t available at the pharmacy.
Fans and former co-stars quickly flooded the comments with love and encouragement. Kym Marsh wrote, “Sending love darling xx,” while Kate Ford added, “Sending you my love xxx.” Antony Cotton shared: “When you’re going through hell…keep going. Love and power to you x,” and writer Daran Little posted: “My brave wonderful friend. You are in mine and so many people’s prayers.”
Tracy, who has vowed to remain honest about her journey, continues to inspire countless people battling cancer, showing the courage it takes to share both the pain and the small victories along the way.
💖 Read more about Tracy’s journey and see her touching message to fans in the comments below.
