Samantha Womack has shared an update on her health amid her breast cancer battle as she prepares to undergo chemotherapy.
The former EastEnders star, 49, revealed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer as she paid tribute to Olivia Newton-John, who battled breast cancer for 30 years, following her death at age 73 back in August.
Following her announcement, Samantha underwent an operation to have a lumpectomy – a procedure to remove a lump – and also had a lymph node removed.
After recovering from the surgery the actress, who shared her heartache over the death of her beloved dog, Samantha has now shared an update with fans in a video on her Instagram page.
In the clip the stunning TV star is wearing a green jumper and has her blonde locks tinted pink as she filmed a message to her 86,000 followers to thank them for their support and share the latest on her battle.
Samantha, who ruled out a return to TV before her diagnosis, is seen telling fans in the footage: "Hey, I just want to say thankyou to everyone who has been sending me love after I shared my story about battling breast cancer.
"So, just to tell you where I’m at I’ve had my operation, I had a lumpectomy and lymph node removal and I am now going to start my first session of chemotherapy tomorrow."
The former soap actress, who played Ronnie Mitchell on EastEnders, added that she was "blown away" by the support from fans.
Sam ended the video with: "I have read all your stories and messages, they’ve blown me away, genuinely. I just wanted to say thank you, I am very humbled by the fact that everyone has reached out and yeah so, I’ll keep you posted.
"Just a huge thank you, sending you all lots of love."
The TV star was flooded with loving messages in. the comments section from celebrity friends and fans.
Rita Simons, who played Sam's on-screen sister Roxy Mitchell on EastEnders, wrote: "I love you so very much my absolute soldier" followed by a red heart emoji.
While Tamzin Outhwaite, who played Mel Owen on the soap, penned: "Oh darling. Sending you love , light and positive energy. You are so strong and I know you will override all your obstacles."
Denise Van Outen added: "Sending so much love to you Sam".
Fans also posted supportive messages as one said: "I wish you huge love for tmrw on your chemotherapy. I’m sure there is some wonderful advice from those who have walked this path. You are a lovely human being much love and light ".
Another added: "Sending you so much light, love and energy Sam x Know you can beat this".
"Sending you much love and strength for the next part of your journey! You look so well and beautiful, it’s hard to imagine you’ve got all this going on. What a brave lady you are," a third said.
