Debbie Webster has been pushing through for weeks in Coronation Street, hiding the truth, managing her emotions, and trying to keep things running like normal. But when unresolved tensions come to a head and cracks start to show, it’s only a matter of time before something gives. And in true Corrie style, it all happens in front of the people she’s been trying hardest to protect.
A Diagnosis Kept in the Dark
Earlier this year, Debbie had some awful news, she was diagnosed with young-onset dementia. But rather than confide in her family, she decided to keep it secret. The only one who knew was her younger brother Carl, who had accompanied her to the private doctor.
Since then, she’s attempted to lead a normal life. But the diagnosis turned her life upside down. Fearing the future, she broke up with Ronnie Bailey, not because she didn’t want to, but because she didn’t wish him to be responsible for her as things went from bad to worse.
She also did not want to burden Kevin any further. He had already had cancer and chemo, and Debbie didn’t feel it was right to lay another burden on him. So she bottled it all up and tried to keep up appearances.
Throughout the episodes to come, Debbie loses her hold. It starts at the Chariot Square Hotel, where she spots Brody Michaelis having a drink at the bar. Believing he’s underage, she confronts him but her response is far from restrained. She explodes and ends up shattering a glass on the bar, leaving Bernie Winter utterly flabbergasted at her behavior.
Later in the week, Bernie becomes more alarmed when Debbie fails to pay in the café. Something isn’t quite right, and those about her are beginning to notice. Next is the Speed Daal awards ceremony. Debbie observes Ronnie socializing and laughing with Leanne Battersby, and jealousy sets in.
Her feelings are already all over the shop, and catching sight of Carl in what appears to be a flirtatious exchange with Abi does not help. Debbie clocks the interaction and begins to worry about what it signifies, and whether other people have picked up on it as well. Just when it seems like it’s getting too much, Debbie faints.
The Truth Finally Revealed in Coronation Street
In a moment that’s already causing shockwaves among Coronation Street viewers, Debbie collapses to the ground, utterly devastated. Her relatives rush to her side, bewildered and terrified. When she wakes up, the look of concern on everyone’s face is palpable.
As they get ready to take her to the hospital, Debbie finally drops the facade. She tells them the truth that she has dementia. It’s the thing she’s feared the most, but also something she can no longer deny.
The months of attempting to keep it from them, for how much longer can she hold on? Debbie comes clean. The brave face, the secrets, the avoiding of questions, it all explains itself. Her family are left stunned as the enormity of her battle hits home.
The truth is now guaranteed to rock everyone’s boat. Kevin, who already has his own health problems, must now get used to the fact that his sister has a life-threatening illness. Carl can feel conflicted for having kept her secret. And Ronnie, he might, at last, realize why Debbie did push him away.
But Debbie won’t be going through this by herself anymore. The cat’s out of the bag, and her family now have the opportunity to stand by her. Stay right here on Soap Opera Daily for all the latest Coronation Street action.
