Former Coronation Street Star Beverley Callard Shares Emotional Update After Breast Cancer Surgery
Former Coronation Street actress Beverley Callard has provided a deeply personal and emotional update following her recent breast cancer surgery, disclosing that she experienced minor complications during her hospital stay. The 68-year-old star, best known for her iconic role as Rovers Return landlady Liz McDonald, confessed she wept when she finally returned home after the procedure.
Complications and Emotional Recovery
Callard revealed that she was supposed to be discharged from hospital one day earlier but medical staff decided to keep her overnight due to what she described as "minor complications" during her surgery. The actress shared her experience on social media, stating: "I'm home. I was supposed to come home yesterday, but they decided to keep me in overnight. Minor complications. So I have been home for a couple of hours."
The emotional toll became apparent as she continued: "I'm feeling okay. I had a bit of a cry as you do, but I am okay. Emotions are all over the place, you know which is you know... anyway, I won't rant on about that." She also mentioned that hospital nurses had commented on her pale appearance following the procedure.
Praise for NHS Staff and Support Systems
Despite the challenges, Callard expressed immense gratitude toward the medical professionals who cared for her at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. She emphasized: "The staff at Norfolk And Norwich Hospital were truly amazing." The actress shared a particularly touching detail about her recovery - a handmade bag created by a nurse's family member to help patients manage their drain bottles during recovery.
Callard humorously noted: "And wait for this, who needs Louis Vuitton? Josh, one of the nurses, his nan makes these to keep the drain bottle in... But it's the handiest thing ever." This small gesture highlighted the compassionate care she received throughout her treatment.
Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Journey
The actress first announced her breast cancer diagnosis during an appearance on Ireland's Late Late Show with Patrick Kielty, where she maintained a positive outlook despite the challenging news. Callard confirmed that her cancer was detected in the early stages, and her treatment plan includes radiotherapy following her surgery.
This isn't the first time Callard has faced cancer - she was previously diagnosed with cervical cancer at just 32 years old. The resilient actress has expressed determination to "beat it" once again, drawing strength from her previous experience overcoming the disease.
Pre-Surgery Preparation and Mindset
In the days leading up to her operation, Callard kept her followers informed about her emotional state and preparations. She shared a video on Instagram where she discussed her mindset before the procedure: "Update for anyone else who is about to go through it. I'm at the hospital, it's the big day, which I'm glad about. I'm ready, I'm strong, I feel fine."
The actress revealed that she had been keeping herself occupied by continuously cleaning her house, stating: "The house is so clean because I can't stop thinking about things." She also found comfort in connecting with other patients facing similar challenges, noting: "There's a few other ladies here with me, we've had a chat... This other lady said she's the same. I keep thinking, will I be lopsided? What will I wear? But I'm really good, I'm really strong."
Surgical Details and Ongoing Support
Callard underwent a significant surgical procedure that included the removal of lymph nodes as a precautionary measure, though her medical team was "pretty sure" the cancer hadn't spread to them. She described it as "quite a big operation" but expressed complete trust in her medical team.
The actress has been open about the importance of community support during her cancer journey, encouraging others to share their stories and experiences. She emphasized: "Truly, your stories mean a great deal to me," highlighting how connecting with others facing similar challenges has provided emotional strength throughout her treatment process.
Callard continues to maintain her professional commitments despite her health challenges, having recently secured a role in Irish soap Fair City. Her candid updates about her breast cancer journey have resonated with fans and fellow cancer survivors, offering a raw and honest perspective on the emotional and physical aspects of cancer treatment and recovery.
