Actress Natalie Cassidy's nine-year-old daughter, Joanie, has been hospitalized again after breaking her arm in a fall at school. The incident occurred just weeks after Joanie had metal plates removed from the same arm following a previous injury.
Cassidy, known for her role in EastEnders, shared that the latest break has been described as 'smashed to pieces' and required a general anesthetic for another operation. This marks the third time Joanie has broken the same arm. She previously sustained a clean break, followed by another fracture that necessitated the insertion of metal plates. These plates were removed approximately eight weeks ago.
Describing the emotional toll of the situation, Cassidy stated on her podcast, "Life With Nat," that she felt like she was 'having a nervous breakdown' upon learning of her daughter's fall. She expressed feeling 'speechless' and 'traumatized' by the recurrent injury. Cassidy, who shares Joanie with fiancé Marc Humphreys, also has a 15-year-old daughter, Eliza, from a previous relationship.
Following the latest injury, Cassidy underwent extensive blood tests for Joanie, fearing she might have a deficiency contributing to the repeated fractures. However, test results indicated everything was within the normal range, with a consultant suggesting it was a case of 'really bad luck.'
The hospitalization meant the family's plans for a relaxing mini-holiday at home in Hertfordshire were disrupted. Cassidy recounted preparing for a break with her fiancé setting up a paddling pool and tending to the garden when the call about Joanie's fall came.
The actress also reflected on her experience training to be a carer for a BBC docuseries, following her father's death at age 84. She had moved her father into an annexe at her home to care for him until his passing. This experience, she explained, inspired her to explore a career in care, aiming to highlight the challenges within Britain's care system. Cassidy noted that caring has been a significant part of her life since childhood, with her grandmother having lived with her and been cared for by her mother.