EastEnders’ “moving”, potentially life-saving Lola story praised by Macmillan

By Helen Daly

Published: Monday, 14 November 2022 at 12:00 am

Fans have been gripped to EastEnders as the BBC soap continues to explore Lola Pearce’s (played by Danielle Harold) brain tumour diagnosis.

The storyline is being played out on screen now and Macmillan Cancer Support has told RadioTimes.com the importance of showing this devastating storyline.

For information and support surrounding Lola’s diagnosis, visit the Macmillan Cancer Support website, online community, or call its free Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8am-8pm.

Macmillan Cancer Support’s Strategic Advisor for Treatment, Dany Bell, said: “Storylines like Lola’s play a crucial role in raising awareness of the impact cancer can have on someone’s life, as well as some of the early signs and symptoms that may lead to a diagnosis.

“After being approached by EastEnders, Macmillan (alongside Brain Tumour Research) has helped to bring stories like Lola’s to life in a realistic, accurate way for EastEnders’ millions of viewers across the UK, which has the potential to save lives and help others to better understand the incredibly difficult time that people living with cancer may be going through.

“Lola’s diagnosis is one of several incredibly moving cancer storylines EastEnders has tackled over the years, including stories of prostate cancer, and breast cancer in both men and women. EastEnders has always been extremely diligent and committed to portraying an accurate depiction of a diagnosis, and importantly, what the experience of cancer can be like for many, beyond the point of diagnosis.

“We know at Macmillan that soaps telling cancer storylines can help to change people’s perceptions of the disease. Many people may still view cancer as something that mainly affects older people, however while it is more uncommon for a young adult like Lola, cancer still impacts thousands of people in their teens and twenties in the UK every year.

“In this storyline, Lola receives a diagnosis of Glioblastoma Multiforme, a lesser-known, rare brain tumour. We’re supporting EastEnders with their research so they can accurately capture the various experiences and emotions that someone living with a brain tumour may face; from the symptoms that can present in people with a Glioblastoma diagnosis, to how the cancer might progress, and treatment options.