Ali Bastien, known for her role in Hollyoaks, has opened up about her ongoing recovery following her battle with breast cancer. The 42-year-old actress was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer last year. She underwent intense chemotherapy and a mastectomy as part of her treatment.
Earlier this year, Ali shared the joyful news that she was officially cancer-free, bringing relief and happiness to her fans.
Early Signs and Diagnosis
Ali first suspected something was wrong when she found a lump while breastfeeding her daughter. At first, she thought it was a blocked milk duct. However, further tests confirmed the diagnosis of breast cancer.
Recovery and Future Plans
Speaking candidly on Giovanna Fletcher’s Happy Mum, Happy Baby podcast, Ali revealed that her body is slowly “on the mend” and rebuilding after her treatment. She explained that she had not been able to have reconstructive surgery immediately because she needed radiotherapy.
“At the beginning I was 100 per cent sure it was going to happen. But now, I want to talk to them and see what the options are, but I’m not actually married to any of them at the moment,” Ali said.
Living with a Prosthesis
Ali described her experience wearing a prosthesis after her mastectomy. She praised it for being light and comfortable, unlike the standard silicone blocks used in hospitals.
“I’ve got a great prosthesis and I feel so much better. I feel normal when I put it on. It’s bright pink, which makes me happy,” she said.
She also mentioned that the prosthesis is visually appealing, allowing her to feel confident around her children.
Other Health Challenges
As she continues to recover, Ali is now focusing on other health concerns. She revealed she has been living with a large hernia since giving birth to her two daughters.
“It’s like a tennis ball. I’ve had it for five years and now I have to get rid of it,” she explained.
Ali is a mother of two — Isla, five, and Isabella, two — with her husband David O’Mahony.
Remembering Her Mother
In a heartfelt message earlier this year, Ali announced the passing of her mother, who died in 2023 after a cancer diagnosis. She shared her grief publicly on social media, expressing the difficulty of coping with loss amid her own health struggles.
“Sudden death after a short serious illness. It’s really hard to understand,” Ali wrote.
She spoke about how grief comes in waves and how she tries to be gentle with herself as she navigates life after cancer and life without her mother.
“Mom, I love you and always will love you. Days like today are so hard… I want to pour all the love of my children into me and love them with all my strength,” she wrote.
Ali Bastien’s Career Highlights
Ali is best known for her role as Becca Dean in Hollyoaks, which she played from 2001 to 2007. She also took part in Strictly Come Dancing in 2009.
Related topics:
- Kylie Jenner Flaunts Breasts In Latex Mini Dress After Augmentation
- Jennifer Lopez Plans Breast Augmentation After Wardrobe Slip
- World’s First Breast Transplant Replaces Cancerous One
