Coronation Street legend and soap icon Julie Goodyear is battling dementia, with her husband revealing all in a candid statement.
Julie, 81, is an icon of the soap world, having become one of the most recognisable faces on British TV, thanks to her legendary star turn as Bet Lynch in Coronation Street, a role that she began in 1996 and returned to on multiple occasions, most recently in 2003. She also had a memorable stint in the Celebrity Big Brother house, alongside the likes of EastEnders star Cheryl Fergison, Julian Clary and Coleen Nolan.
Speaking out on her dementia, Julie's husband Scott Brand said: "My darling wife and I have had to come to terms with this heart-breaking diagnosis. Unfortunately, Julie has been suffering forgetfulness for some time and we have been seeking medical advice and assistance, but we now know that there is no hope of a reversal in the situation – and that her condition will get progressively, and perhaps speedily, worse."
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He added: "We have taken the decision to publicly announce the diagnosis as Julie still loves visiting friends and eating out. Inevitably she is recognised, and fans love to meet her - and she them - but she can get confused particularly if she is tired. I hope people will understand.’
Fans were quick to take to Twitter to offer support to Julie and her family, with one posting: "Dreadful news. Julie Goodyear is a god-tier soap icon" and another tweeting: "Absolutely devastated to hear Julie Goodyear has dementia. Sending love and prayers for the Queen of The Rovers"
Reacting to Julie's news, Dementia UK CEO and Chief Admiral Nurse Hilda Hayo said: "We’re sorry to hear that Julie Goodyear has been diagnosed with dementia, and hope that she and her family are receiving the support and assistance they need at this time. By choosing to speak publicly about her diagnosis, Julie and her family will raise vital awareness of dementia and we hope that this will encourage others to seek advice if they have concerns for their brain health.
"We urge families affected by dementia to reach out to our specialist Helpline. Staffed by dementia specialist Admiral Nurses, our Helpline offers support and guidance on all stages of dementia, including grieving for a loved one"
.Anyone affected by dementia can contact the Helpline by calling 0800 888 6678 or emailing helpline@dementiauk.org."
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