Gemma Oaten has given her fans a health update - after being rushed to hospital on Saturday and admitting she feared death due to the pain.
The former soap star tested positive for Covid-19 last week, and found herself developing "excruciating chest, stomach and back pains" throughout the week.
Describing the experience as a "blur and very surreal", Gemma shared a snap from her hospital bed on Tuesday, as she revealed her new medical diagnosis and how the last few days have been.
As she shared details of her condition, which "leads to kidney failure or worse, death", the former Emmerdale actress also highlighted some of the cruel messages she has received since falling ill.
Her Instagram statement in full reads: "Hi everyone. I'm so sorry I've been quiet. I've been inundated with messages and tried to keep up, as have my parents, but we've hit a brick wall.
"I just thought it best to do an update for all you lovely people so our phones can cool down and we can get some rest at what's been a really horrible time for us all and my close family and friends.
The star continues: "So... I've been in hospital since Saturday and things quickly took a turn for the worse. As many know I tested positive for covid last Tuesday but woke early hours Saturday morning with excruciating chest, stomach and back pains. I called 111 for advice and they sent an ambulance and its all been a blur and very surreal, but too real as well if that makes sense?
"Long story short and I'll explain more when I am ready and fully fit, but I was diagnosed with milk alkali syndrome which in rare and severe cases (like mine) leads to kidney failure or worse, death.
"Yep. All a bit much. Thank you to @henriettamac for making me seek help and pushing me to put me first and for all her care and @joffpowell for bringing me clean knickers and all the magazines and puzzles a girl could dream of and for being my rock as always. Both of you. You're amazing.
"And to the trolls (swipe through) for your messages... I don't normally call out keyboard warriors but a lesson needs to be learned. I read these whilst wondering if I would make the night. Think before you type. Kindness means everything."
Gemma begins to conclude: "On a lighter note. Thank you @ollielockeworld for sending this photo and making me laugh, insta filter dream.
"For now self care and rest for me, so please bear with. This has been a wake up call and I need time to process it all too.
"Stay well lovelies, thanks to all the amazing people in my life for the support. Especially mummy and daddy O and my family and real friends. love you.
"Ps Big shout out to the A&E staff at Charing Cross hospital, Marjory Warren ward. You are absolutely incredible. Thank you for looking after me and for your tireless work.
"*God that took me an hour to type Tata!*" Gemma signed off with, after letting her 24,8000 followers know about her condition.
Many fans rushed to wish Gemma well underneath her length update, with one writing: "Wishing you a speedy recovery! Thoughts are with you, sending lots of love."
Gemma played Rachel Breckle on Emmerdale from 2011 and 2015, before heading over to another ITV soap, Coronation Street.
The actress made a cameo on the cobbles in November 2021 as Isla Haywood, a potential love interest for Tyrone Dobbs and mother of Hope Stape's classmate Darcy.
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