EastEnders aired a distressing episode as Lauren Branning, portrayed by Jacqueline Jossa, expressed increasing concern over the health of her two-week-old son Jimmy Beale, whom she shares with Peter (Thomas Law).
Peter was cautioned to be vigilant for symptoms of postnatal depression in Lauren, and later discovered both Lauren and Jimmy absent from the house. Their older son, Louie (Jake McNally) mentioned that he had seen his mother taking a tablet from a bottle under the sink.
Peter arrived at the hospital with his father Ian (Adam Woodyatt) and family friend Linda Carter (Kellie Bright). Lauren clarified that she had merely been taking folic acid and had misplaced them due to exhaustion, reports Belfast Live.
Linda glanced at Jimmy and noticed something concerning about his eyes. Hanan took heed and also examined Jimmy before requesting a doctor’s assessment.
In a heartbreaking scene, Peter abruptly left the room during a consultation when the doctor confirmed Jimmy’s condition. Bereft of support, Lauren remained to hear the full diagnosis: her son had optic nerve chorioretinal coloboma, qualifying him as severely sight-impaired.
Simultaneously, the doctor reassured a guilt-ridden Lauren that her methadone prescription did not cause Jimmy’s condition, yet raised the possibility that other drug use she engaged in while pregnant might have been a contributing factor.
Lauren grappled with the idea that her past addiction could have put her baby at risk and anxiously questioned if he was fully blind.
Solitude enveloped Lauren as she stood alone in the bathroom, making a resolute promise to herself to abandon all drugs forever, turning to prayer for forgiveness.
However, amidst the gloom, there dwelled a glimmer of hope as Jimmy managed to latch on for breastfeeding, showcasing his resilient spirit.
A poignant blackout encapsulated the scene, emphasising the intimate moment between mother and son, underscored by their deepening bond as Lauren braced for their future.
EastEnders enthusiasts are left urging Lauren to call off her impending marriage to Peter, who has shown a lack of care.
Fans took to social media to express their agitation with one remarking on X: “Peter going home when he should be supporting Lauren and Jimmy. That’s the final straw for him now! Lauren ditch him whilst you’re ahead. #EastEnders.”
Another viewer shared their sentiment on the platform: “I actually hope Lauren doesn’t marry peter she deserves way better tbh #EastEnders.”
A third fan agreed: “Hopefully Lauren leaves Peter before the wedding because if Lauren marries Peter I think Peter will control Lauren #EastEnders.
