EastEnders star Cheryl Fergison shares health update after stroke

Cheryl Fergison said she is recovering slowly eight months after a May 2025 stroke and is undergoing rehabilitation for movement and speech.

Cheryl Fergison, known for playing Heather Trott on EastEnders, has provided an update on her health eight months after suffering a stroke in May 2025. She told BBC Breakfast she is recovering slowly and feels a lot better than in the early weeks. Her son Alex recognised the symptoms and took her to hospital in Blackpool, where she began treatment. She is continuing rehabilitation to retrain movement, balance and speech with support from her stroke team and the Stroke Association. Key facts: - The stroke left Fergison initially unable to walk or speak clearly, and her right side remained affected. - She has described steady, gradual improvement and ongoing therapy for coordination, balance and speech. - Her son identified her symptoms and she received hospital care in Blackpool followed by rehabilitation support. - Her medical history includes a 2015 womb cancer operation, and Barbara Windsor earlier provided help with medical bills and living expenses. Summary: Fergison reports gradual improvement in movement and speech while continuing rehabilitation with specialist support. Undetermined at this time.