EastEnders actress Heather Peace has confirmed she's been diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone chemotherapy and surgery. The 49-year-old was inundated with messages of support as she shared the news in a heartbreaking Instagram post on Monday. In the candid video, the BBC star shared she was trying on various wigs as she admitted she had been "on quite a road for many months now". The on-screen star shared she learned of her diagnosis at the beginning of October and has since been undergoing treatment.

Heather, who plays Eve Panesar-Urwin, spoke candidly about her diagnosis as she admits she's "forever changed" following the news. The actress went on to thank her EastEnders team for their continued support as she plans to "cherish life". Her candid admission sparked a wave of support from her 118,000 followers.

In view of her 118,000 followers, she penned: "This video is an important part of my recent journey, which I wanted to share with you. It’s been about the #TeamEffort here @bbceastenders I needed a wig fitting. I’ve been on quite a road for many months now.

"I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of October. Since then I’ve undergone surgery and recovery over the Christmas period and today my chemotherapy journey ended.

"I woke up this morning and it was like the end of the London Marathon; I’d turned onto The Mall and could see the giant clock & the finish line.

To conclude - I’ve just picked up my medal."

She went on: "But I’m forever changed. During this time I’ve narrowed my world. I’ve had the most precious time with my wife Ellie and our 3 girls; Annie, Jessie & Lola. Just trying to appreciate every moment of them. I’ve stayed still.

I’ve found joy in the simplest of things. Interactions with others have felt honest and real because I’ve had no capacity for small talk. It has felt like such a personal shift. There have been so many positives.

Thank you to the whole EE team for going above & beyond. Particularly our amazing makeup team. And to Alex Rouss for the original wig & Linda for the spot on cut. I’ve felt totally supported by you all."

Heather concluded: "Thank you to all of the friends in my local community who’ve been there for me and my family at the drop of a hat (you know who you are). Thank you to the NHS. You are wonderful, skilled people. You treated me efficiently. You gave me dignity and showed me kindness. It’s so appreciated.

Life feels very different now and it’s wonderful. I will continue to cherish and be grateful for all I am blessed with. I feel very lucky. With love, Heather xxx."

Heather has since completed her cancer treatment and was swiftly inundated with messages of support from her legion of supporters.

Lacey Turner wrote: "My superhero !! Love you always mate."

Kellie Bright gushed: "I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…. WARRIOR WOMAN!!!! Love the bones of you."

Emma Barton penned: "Love you so much, you beautiful, strong, mental, brave lady… You’re frigging Ace!!"

Heather is best known for her role in EastEnders and was involved in a secret gay love affair storyline with Suki Kaur (played by Balvinder Sopal).