Soap lovers were left saddened this week by the news that actress Leah Bracknell, who played Zoe Tate for 16 years on Emmerdale, was recently diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
The outpouring of love and support from the public, however, may have just saved the star’s life.
In the wake of Leah’s diagnosis, her long-term partner Jez Hughes created a GoFundMe page, appealing to the public for help with her treatment.
Despite medics’ stark outlook for Leah’s health battle, the couple did some research and found a clinic in Germany where scientists are carrying out pioneering work to cure previously ‘incurable’ forms of cancer.
In order to get Leah to the clinic, they needed to raise £50,000 – and, thanks to the overwhelming support of the public, they just exceeded their target.
Leah and Jez hit £50,000 in the space of just four days, with good Samaritans donating generously in the hope of helping the actress out in her hour of need.
Some of the messages and dedications left on the page are heart-wrenching, and many of those who donated have had their lives touched by cancer in some way.
We’re wishing Leah the very best of luck with her treatment. Here is the link to her GoFundMe page.
