News

Leah Bracknell backs “illegal” drug to ease cancer symptoms

Actress says those living with cancer should be able to try what ever method they can to ease the pain

| Updated:

It was one of the heartbreaking stories we’d heard all year when Leah Bracknell revealed she had terminal cancer last year.

The former Emmerdale star was instantly flooded with messages of love and support from fans.

READ MORE: X Factor star attacks Katie Price after TV appearance

But she has always vowed to fight the disease and now she’s hinted that she might be using marijuana to help ease the pain.

The 52-year-old’s cancer was found in her lungs and she’s currently going through intense medical treatment.

Leah has already spoken about her belief in alternative medicines and has hinted at what she might be using.

But she has never confirmed exactly what she’s taking to try and cope with the symptoms.

That’s probably wise because if she’s taking marijuana, which is known by many to help those being treated for cancer, then she is effectively breaking the law.

Marijuana is a class B drug in the UK and even if you’re using it for medicine you can face 28 days in jail if you’re found in possession of it too many times.

Leah is a big fan of alternative therapies and it sounds like she’s pretty frustrated by the law.

The actress, who played Zoe Tate in Emmerdale for 16 years and is now an ex-yoga teacher, has been writing about her journey online.

In a recent blog she wrote: “If trying unconventional, alternative treatments calls you, please have a go. Go with your gut.”

Then, sounding her frustration about the possibility that some people might be facing arrest for trying to ease their pain, she hinted about her own experiences.

She wrote: “Don’t even start me on the controversial illegal cancer cure method that thousands are turning to.

Sounds like she’s been getting some requests from followers who are keen to try and make themselves feel better too but Leah’s hands are tied on that one.

She added: “And if you don’t know what it is, please don’t ask, I cannot say as it’s illegal in this country, though not in 23 states in America.”

Support for Leah has been huge and not just in messages of admiration and sorrow at the news her cancer is terminal.

More than £60,000 was raised in an online appeal she posted for treatment at a German clinic.

READ MORE: Strictly star quits career to help people fight their demons

But that didn’t work out it seems and now she’s getting the best treatment but perhaps not exactly the same kind at a private London clinic.


Christian Guiltenane
Freelance Writer

Related Topics