Hollyoaks will break new ground for British soaps, as character Patrick discovers he has Motor Neurone Disease.
The teacher, played by Jeremy Sheffield, will tell secretary Theresa McQueen (Jorgie Porter) that he is suffering from the degenerative disorder, which at present has no cure.
This comes just months after Patrick’s explosive domestic violence storyline involving partner Maxine Minniver (Nikki Sanderson) from whom he is now estranged.
And in a further twist, Patrick will hide news of his illness from those closest to him, in the hope that he will win custody of his and Maxine’s baby, Minnie.
The use of the disease in the upcoming soap storyline comes just a few months after the release of A Theory of Everything, which documents the life of prolific MND sufferer Stephen Hawking.
Hollyoaks writers are reportedly working with the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) to make sure their portrayal of the illness is realistic and accurate.
Jeremy Sheffield, who plays Patrick, spoke out about the upcoming storyline:
‘He is in denial, having seen his father deteriorate and die of the same illness he is unable and unwilling to filly accept the truth.’
‘For Patrick the idea of not being in control, of relinquishing his power, is unthinkable and it will be interesting to see how the man who needs to control everything and everyone in his life copes with something that he cannot influence.’
Tune into Hollyoaks this week for all the drama.