Loose Women’s Brenda Edwards says having cancer has made her ‘appreciate every day’ as she admits she ‘faces a life of uncertainty’

Loose Women's Brenda Edwards says having cancer has made her 'appreciate every day' as she admits she 'faces a life of uncertainty'

As a lifestyle expert with decades of personal and professional experience under my belt, I wholeheartedly agree with Brenda Edwards‘ perspective on life following her battle with breast cancer. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that every day is a gift, and we should seize opportunities with both hands.


Brenda Edwards, one of the panelists on Loose Women, expressed that having breast cancer has caused her to adopt an entirely fresh perspective on life.

In 2015, at the age of 46, a previous contestant on The X Factor, now 55 and cancer-free for nine years, received a diagnosis of breast cancer.

For Brenda, dealing with cancer has given her a newfound gratitude for each day, as it has forced her to confront an uncertain future after going through difficult times.

She shared with The Mirror: “Facing cancer alters anyone since it brings about an uncertain future, making one cherish each day of life.

I’m deeply appreciative of the experiences that life offers me. I’ve always been an ambitious person, and my determination has only grown stronger. If you don’t take a chance, you’ll never discover what could be. There’s a possibility for success, so I’m willing to attempt almost anything.

Loose Women's Brenda Edwards says having cancer has made her 'appreciate every day' as she admits she 'faces a life of uncertainty'

Loose Women's Brenda Edwards says having cancer has made her 'appreciate every day' as she admits she 'faces a life of uncertainty'

Besides Brenda herself, she acknowledges Colleen Nolan for accompanying her to the hospital for tests on a newly discovered lump, which fortunately turned out to be harmless.

She said: ‘Once you’ve had it, you’re told that if there’s anything else, no matter how big or small, to flag it. It’s nice to have someone like Coleen because she’s so funny. Coleen is the perfect person to distract you and keep your mind off the worst.’ 

In late 2015, Brenda discovered a mass beneath her right breast. Subsequently, she underwent a six-month course of chemotherapy followed by a mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery.

She engaged with TopMob during the latest GenesisCare Second Chance initiative, an endeavor designed to educate people about the regions in the body where recurrent cancer is typically found and the signs to watch for.

In simpler terms, secondary (or metastatic) breast cancer refers to a situation where the initial cancerous cells that originated from the breast spread and grow in other areas throughout the body.

Regarding her personal struggle with the illness, Brenda shared: ‘There are certain aspects beyond our grasp, and cancer undeniably falls into that category. However, my approach was to maintain a hopeful outlook.’

Approximately 3 out of every 4 breast cancer survivors may not realize which parts of the body could potentially develop secondary breast cancer, making it crucial for them to understand what signs to watch out for.

Adding: ‘The most likely areas to effected by breast cancer are your head, your brain, your lungs, your skin, your liver’. 

Loose Women's Brenda Edwards says having cancer has made her 'appreciate every day' as she admits she 'faces a life of uncertainty'
Loose Women's Brenda Edwards says having cancer has made her 'appreciate every day' as she admits she 'faces a life of uncertainty'
Loose Women's Brenda Edwards says having cancer has made her 'appreciate every day' as she admits she 'faces a life of uncertainty'

In her mid-forties when diagnosed, she mentioned experiencing an early onset of menopause as a side effect, and this continues to affect her today.

2021 saw Brenda publicly share an emotional moment when, amidst a performance of Hairspray, she was diagnosed with Stage Three breast cancer and had a breakdown on stage.

One evening, she recounted the poignant instant when her fellow actors were moved to tears as they sang ‘I Know Where I’ve Been’.

On Martin and Roman’s Weekend Best, Brenda shared the reason behind the deep emotional impact of that specific song for her.

In 2016, during my performance, is when I received a diagnosis of Stage 3 breast cancer. Despite this, I continued with the show and performed that particular song.

The phrase was similar to this: “We’ve been traversing a path, leaving countless behind us,” and when it was spoken, the entire cast broke down in tears.

As Tracy Turnblade clung to my hands, tearfully pleading, I found myself saying gently yet firmly: “My dear, I can’t sing while crying. You must stop, for your sake, please.

Instead of singing during the performance, I found myself overcome with emotion to the point of crying. The audience members from the first few rows appeared to be tearing up as well, and I imagine they thought it was an exceptional acting job since no one had been informed about my unexpected emotional outburst.

The crowd, who at the time were not aware of her diagnosis, gave her a standing ovation. 

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2024-10-18 12:09

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