EastEnders first look as Lola diagnosed with cancer ahead of emotional exit

It's a Halloween to forget for EastEnders’ Lola when she is diagnosed with a brain tumour.

She has to come to terms with the terrifying diagnosis as she prepares for surgery she hopes will save her life.

Lola was diagnosed after suffering unexpected ing and seizures.

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Speaking about the role, Danielle Harold, who has played the character since 2011, said: "It means so much to be trusted with a storyline like this."

She added: "Sadly, many of our viewers will be able to relate to Lola’s story and it has been heartbreaking to hear their stories."

EastEnders is working alongside Brain Tumour Research and Macmillan Cancer Support on the storyline.

Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw explained: "It was vital for us to work alongside Macmillan and Brain Tumour Research to take on, and accurately present, such a profound and emotional storyline for Lola, one that many viewers may relate to.

"Danielle [Harold] has thoughtfully relayed the realities of being diagnosed with a brain tumour with grace and understanding.

"We hope that this storyline resonates with the audience, and that we represent it as sensitively, and accurately as possible."

Sue Castle-Smith, Head of PR and Communications for the charity Brain Tumour Research added: "We are extremely grateful to EastEnders for helping to raise awareness of brain tumours.

"Sadly, Lola’s story is all too familiar to thousands of families. Brain tumours are indiscriminate and can affect anyone at any age, they kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer."

The storyline follows confirmation from actress Danielle that she is leaving the soap, after more than a decade as Lola.

During her time on Albert Square, Lola has welcomed daughter Lexi and formed bonds with residents including Jay Brown, with Danielle telling Daily Star at The British Soap Awards: "EastEnders has been such a big part of my life, but I can't wait to start something new."

"I want to work on other things and play other characters. I can't wait to get out there and see what's possible."

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