EastEnders’ Stuart Highway in Torment as Faced with Painkiller Breast Cancer Surgery

EASTENDERS’ Stuart Highway has been petrified that his drug addiction will return as he faces pain-relieving breast cancer surgery.

The hardman – played by Ricky Champ on BBC One soap – was struggling to cope with his breast cancer diagnosis and pushed his girlfriend Rainie away.

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In the upcoming scenes next week, the doctor explains the surgery to Stuart and he wants it done as soon as possible.

But when they mentioned painkillers, Stuart began to panic and fear the worst.

Stuart, who has a history of drug addiction, later confided in Mick and told him he felt like he was being punished for his past.

He explained that he was worried that the pain medication he would need as he recovered from life-saving surgery might make him addicted again.

Meanwhile, Rainie is well aware that painkillers can cause a downward spiral for her partner after years of drug abuse herself.

How will Stuart cope?

Last week, viewers watched Stuart punch barman Mick Carter, believing he was having an affair with Rainie.

But he quickly got the wrong clubhead and eventually made it clear to Raine about his diagnosis.

In recent weeks, Stuart has been trying to deal with his declining health.

Back in December 2021, Ricky Champ’s character was devastated when it was discovered he had been diagnosed with male breast cancer.

And after the distraction his wife Rainie by first telling her that his friend Sonia Fowler was the one with the disease, Stuart hugged her close.

Talking about the side story, Ricky said: “I feel very honored to be entrusted with such an important storyline.

“We’re going to see Stuart really grapple with the fact that he has cancer, and to learn that its breast cancer is really confusing for him.

“I hope by shedding light on male breast cancer, more men will become aware of the disease and seek medical attention if they notice anything unusual.”

EastEnders returns tonight on BBC One at 8pm

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