As EastEnders bids farewell to Lola Pearce, the character who has touched the hearts of millions, actress Danielle Harold's real-life health battle takes centre stage.
From her very first audition at the tender age of 19, the star has dedicated herself to bringing Lola to life on the BBC soap, enthralling viewers with compelling storylines that have tackled delicate topics such as teen pregnancy and fighting for custody of her daughter, Lexi.
While Lola final days in Albert Square continue to captivate audiences, few are aware that the talented star has been silently battling a relentless condition that has wreaked havoc on her well-being.
READ MORE: EastEnders star says Lola's death is 'hardest thing he's done' after real-life tragedy
Danielle’s health battles began at the age of 15, when she was taken to hospital for the first time and learning she suffered from a painful chronic bladder infection.
The star bravely opened up about a hidden health struggle that has haunted her throughout her life.
Speaking to the Mirror, she said: “When I was in Year 10, I fell ill and I was in and out of hospital.”
Harold's journey has been far from smooth, as the lifelong condition forced her into a cycle of countless hospital visits and disrupted her education.
She added: “At that point I just gave up. I didn’t try with my GCSEs and I only got one.
“After that I worked as a waitress, but I didn’t really enjoy it. I lost all my confidence and I didn’t believe in myself.”
Undeterred by the setbacks, the courageous Londoner refused to let her dreams slip away.
She slowly built her confidence back up though, as she soon saw an advert for Jamie’s Dream School – a programme ran by TV chef Jamie Oliver that helped teens get their GCSEs to achieve their dreams.
Despite her own personal struggles, Harold poured her heart and soul into the character, creating a remarkable connection with fans since 2011.
Now, as she continues to face her own battle off-screen, the resilient actress is determined to channel her emotions into her final storyline, leaving an indelible mark on the show.
Danielle's axe comes as part of new boss Chris Clenshaw’s plan to shake-up the series, which has included plenty of twists and turns so far.
Speaking to the Sun, an EastEnders insider said: “Dan was in pieces. The call came out of the blue.
“She was not expecting the chop because her character has been a firm favourite with viewers. She’ll be written out with no option to return.”
In a past interview when asked if she was worried about being axed from the soap she replied: “Not in the slightest. I've had a great time here and when it comes to an end, it comes to an end.
“With this being my first job, and because it was so crazy how I came here, I just take life as it comes. Whatever happens, happens. I like that.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm
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