Former Corrie star Tracy Shaw’s heartbreaking cancer update

She is best known for playing Maxine Peacock on Coronation Street, having appeared in the soap from 1995 to 2003 before being murdered by infamous serial killer Richard Hillman (Brian Capron).

She has also appeared in other TV shows such as The Blue Room and Mile High, and embarked on a brief singing career in the late 1990s.

Shaw, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, shared a short video on her Instagram account telling her followers the results of her ultrasound scans.

She said while lumps found on her right breast are cysts and not cancerous, the cancerous lesions on her left breast have not shrunk.

Unfortunately, the lesions have changed shape and have “not really shrunk in size.”

Tracy was in tears in her video, which was filmed outside after her latest appointment, as she told her followers that she knows surgeons “can’t operate until they shrink it.”

Ending the video, she remained positive and said: “I was just expecting some miraculous miracle, but maybe it’s to come.”

What is breast cancer and who can get it?

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK and appears “when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way”, Cancer Research UK explains.

While it’s mainly something that affects women, men can get breast cancer too, but it’s rare for this to happen.

In a year, about 59,400 people are given a breast cancer diagnosis (160 people a day).

When to see your GP about cancer

Tracy’s followers have sent messages of support, with one commenting: “Sending you the biggest hugs.. you can do this 💪💕🩷 xxxxx.”

Another said: “Oh dear girl I’m sorry there wasn’t the best news.

“Take care rest when you can and look forward to better days ahead they will come ❤️❤️❤️.”

This person added: “So sorry to hear the disheartening news-I know how hard this journey is and how much you cling to the hope it is all working.

“Sending lots of love and positivity that your miracle is just waiting around the corner 🙏🤗💕.”

Another commented: “Again sending love to you Tracey.

“You’re so strong and brave to go through your journey so publicly.

“I’m sure with all that strength you have will get you through this ❤️”.

Tracy shares regular updates on Instagram, raising awareness of the disease.