Leah Bracknell, 55, was diagnosed with incurable lung cancer three years ago and the former Emmerdale actress has revealed she would go to any lengths to extend her life.
The ex-soap star has opened up about using cannabis oil containing THC, following evidence it can cause cancer cell death and can help with the effects of chemotherapy.
Leah, who was given just months to live when she was diagnosed, said she has “broken the law” by using cannabis.
She told the Mirror: “I’m running out of time, I’m terminal and I’m doing all I can to prolong that and I’ve also broken the law.
“I’ve made myself into a criminal because I used cannabis.”
Leah continued: “I’m not going to do what I’m told – and that includes dying when you say I’m going to die, that includes accepting your prognosis, that includes people telling me what medicines I should or shouldn’t take.”
The star, who played Zoe Tate in Emmerdale from 1989 until 2006, said “thankfully” she’s not in any pain, but gets out of breath easily.
“That’s the frustrating thing for me,” she said. “In the past I would’ve used the cannabis. I used it for pain relief and while having chemotherapy.”
Leah went on: “I’m aware there needs to be more research but I’m a big advocate for it being something that should be available to people. I believe it worked for me on several levels.”
The actress regularly shares her cancer journey on her blog, Something Beginning With C.
In one of her updates, Leah said she began using cannabis oil from the moment she left hospital back in 2016.
“I decided to integrate plant medicine into my healing programme, and I began to use cannabis oil high in THC medicinally from the day I left the hospital two years ago,” she wrote.
“I have been committed and consistent in using it as a vital component of my journey to healing, both alongside regular treatments, and when none was offered, on its own.”
Meanwhile, Leah has been sharing many pictures of the NHS meals she has received during her time in hospital.
She posted the photos to highlight the lack of funding for food in NHS hospitals.
Alongside a photo of macaroni cheese, Leah wrote: “Over the next few days I shall be sharing pics of the NHS meals what I have had! Being as it’s in the news and on the menu so to speak – and high time too.”
She continued: “With £1.32 spent on each NHS meal compared to £2.02 spent in the prison service.
“I have documented them over the last few years to illicit sympathy from friends and family during my medical incarceration.
“My mum thought this was a prawn korma! Wishful thinking mum. #nhsmeals #foodismedicinetoo. #nutritionfreemeals #nhs.”
Leah shared some more photos of her meals, and told her 2,700 followers “sorry to do this to you”.
