Corrie legend describes heartbreak at Julie Goodyear's dementia battle
Former Coronation Street star Sue Jenkins has discussed the heartbreak of Julie Goodyear’s dementia diagnosis.
The actress, who played barmaid Gloria Todd on the ITV soap from 1985 to 1988, worked alongside Julie, who famously portrayed iconic Rovers Return landlady Bet Lynch.
The Brookside star said that news of Julie’s diagnosis is the ‘saddest thing’, commenting that dementia ‘seems so common now’.
‘It’s heartbreaking how many people are suffering,’ she said. ‘We really have got to get to the bottom of why and fight it.
‘There are so many theories out there on what causes dementia; it’s frightening, it seems out of our control,’ the 64-year-old added to the Daily Mail.
Julie’s dementia diagnosis was revealed by her husband Scott Brand last month.
‘My darling wife and I have had to come to terms with this heart-breaking diagnosis,’ he said at the time in a statement.
‘Unfortunately, Julie has been suffering forgetfulness forsome 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 hercondition will get progressively, and perhaps speedily, worse.
‘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.’
Julie’s work on Coronation Street as Bet is fondly remembered by fans of the show.
Known for her dress sense and her various iconic hairstyles, one of which was the signature beehive look, Bet became not only a Coronation Street icon, but one of TV’s most recognisable characters, appearing at the forefront of the show as a Rovers barmaid and later landlady.
If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us [email protected] – we’d love to hear from you.
Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage.
Source: Read Full Article