Emmerdale star Eden Taylor-Draper has shared a touching update with her Instagram followers. The 28-year-old actress, best known for playing Belle Dingle on the long-running ITV soap, posted the heartfelt message following her sister’s battle with cancer. Eden has portrayed Belle since 2005, taking over the role from Emily Mather.
Over the years, Belle has been central to many dramatic storylines, including the murder of her best friend Gemma Andrews (Tendai Rinomhota), a fake pregnancy, and a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The fan-favourite character was also romantically involved with serial killer Lachlan White (Thomas Atkinson) and led a major 2024 storyline that saw her manipulated and abused by her sinister husband Tom King (James Chase).
Away from the Dales, Eden has faced personal challenges of her own after her sister Francesca was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at just 14 years old. According to the NHS, this type of cancer affects white blood cells and can develop quickly and aggressively.
Following months of intensive treatment, Francesca was eventually given the all clear by doctors and has now celebrated five years cancer-free, according to the Mirror.
Eden has now taken to Instagram to reveal that she will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon this year in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust, inspired by Francesca’s health battle.
Explaining her reasons for taking on the challenge, the actress shared a series of family photos alongside a heartfelt message. She wrote: “When my little sister Chessie was just 14, she was diagnosed with cancer, turning our world upside down. Teenage Cancer Trust supported us every step of the way. They are the only UK charity that provides specialist nursing care and support for young people with cancer.
“This charity means so much to both me and my family. I’m incredibly grateful that Chessie was treated and cared for on one of their wards. I never imagined we would find hope during such a dark period, but Teenage Cancer Trust made that possible, and I’ll always be thankful.
“I’ve witnessed first-hand the life-changing difference this charity makes for young people. Like all Teenage Cancer Trust wards, they rely entirely on public donations and receive no Government funding.”
She continued: “If you’re able to donate anything at all, please consider supporting this incredible charity through my GoFundMe page. It would mean the world to me and to all the young people they help. I want to raise as much money as possible so, alongside Teenage Cancer Trust, I can support others just like Chessie.
“I’m incredibly proud to be an ambassador for this charity and can’t wait to do them proud at the London Landmarks Half Marathon.”
Several of Eden’s Emmerdale co-stars were quick to show their support in the comments. Aaron Dingle actor Danny Miller wrote “Beautiful,” followed by two heart emojis, while Beth Cordingly, who plays Ruby Miligan, commented: “What an incredible personal story — thank you for sharing. Amazing, honey, well done.” Laura Norton, best known for portraying Kerry Wyatt, also praised Eden, writing: “Amazing girl.”
Shebz Miah, who portrays Kammy Hadiq, offered encouragement, writing: “Light work, you got this,” while Amelia Flanagan, known for playing April Windsor, simply commented: “Amazing.” Former Emmerdale actress Daisy Campbell, who played Amelia Spencer, added: “So proud of you.”
Eden had previously spoken about learning of her sister’s diagnosis while on the Emmerdale set. Appearing on ITV’s Lorraine, she reflected on the support she received, saying: “The team at Emmerdale were incredible. We were on a tea break and they just said, ‘Go, anything you need we’re here.’ I was in shock. They gave me a month off so that while Ches was in intensive chemo, I could be there. They’re amazing.”
She added: “It was so difficult to watch someone you love so much and so small go through all of that. Even though you’re there to support them, you can’t fix it or make it better.”
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