Vera: My fear for young smokers.
That’s the headline on today’s front page exclusive in the MEN.
Just hours after viewers saw Vera Duckworth die on screen, we reveal how the actress who plays her has spoken about the deadly lung disease which forced her to quit the cobbles.
Liz Dawn talks on TV for the first time about her illness in a moving film to be screened next month.
Five years ago she was diagnosed with chronic emphysema.
Although treatment has slowed the progress of the disease and improved her quality of life, Liz could not guarantee being well enough to continue her role.
“The last five years, my breathing’s not been that good and I’ve thought I’m not going to be able to carry on,” she tells the ITV1 Tonight documentary called Liz Dawn: Fighting For Breath.
“You can’t guarantee signing a year’s contract and being well for a year,” she explains.

“I mean, I might be well for two months and then not in the rest.
“And the thing is, you can’t let people down in here.”
She also talks of her fears for young smokers – and wishes she could help them to realise the danger and give up.

Liz agreed to take part in the documentary to raise awareness of the disease.
She allowed cameras to film her, accompanied by husband Don, during appointments at Wythenshawe Hospital with consultant Ashley Woodcock (pictured right).
You can read the full online version of my story here.
Can I also point you in the direction of my colleague Paul Taylor’s review of last night’s two episodes here.
The death of Vera Duckworth was, as I’m sure you’ll agree, one of the finest moments in Coronation Street’s long and rich history.
All concerned, from writers through to cast and crew, deserve every award going for giving Vee such a beautiful send off.
Special mention, of course, to Bill Tarmey, who made Jack’s love for Vera as real as the tears flowing in homes across the nation.
Vicky Binns also demonstrated just what a superb actress she is.
The shock and upset of young Molly brought into even sharper relief the sad acceptance of a bereft husband left behind without his dove.
The end of a Vera era was classic Corrie.
But, as I’m sure Liz would be the first to agree, the future is in very good hands.
Liz’s Breathing Battle
Rest In Peace, Vera
Coronation Street Blogs
If You Were The Only Girl (In The World)