EastEnders’ Nicky Henson has been battling cancer for 18 years.
The 72-year-old actor has been fighting the disease for almost two decades after tumours were found around his spleen in 2003 but, despite his health woes, he feels like a "lucky person" and believes his sense of humour has kept him going.
Speaking to the Daily Mirror newspaper, he said: "I’ve been fighting cancer for 18 years now so it’s just part of my life.
"Whatever happens, happens. It’s not so much fighting it, it’s keeping a sense of humour. I swim half a mile every day but I’ve always done that. I haven’t smoked for about 45 years, but I drink alcohol and I’m not going to stop having a good time.
"If I’m going to be here, you need to enjoy it! I consider myself a very lucky person."
After his first diagnosis 18 years ago, the former ‘Downton Abbey’ actor had surgery to remove half his colon and part of his stomach.
But, despite the surgery and medication, the tumour in his stomach returned.
He then had his spleen taken out – removing the cancer for good.
However, he found out he had prostate cancer and has since had 21 medical procedures and has a stent fitted, which has to be replaced every six months.
However, Nicky believes his children have encouraged him to remain positive.
He explained: "My three sons looked it all up on the internet and said, ‘Listen dad, it’s not like the old days – you’ll be alright’. And I have been for 18 years.
"I have four grandchildren who I never thought I’d see. I’m also still working, which really helps. My wife Marguerite has been extraordinary.
"Aside from the fact she saved my life about four times after finding me in difficult situations, she has to deal with the day-to-day side."
Nicky Henson has been battling cancer for 18 years
