Ex- 'EastEnders' star Richard has cancer

LONDON, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- Actress Wendy Richard, known best for her role on the British TV series "EastEnders," says she has been diagnosed with cancer.

The 65-year-old TV star, who played Pauline Fowler on the popular soap opera, said she was diagnosed in January with breast cancer that has since spread to her kidney and bones, The Sun reported Sunday.

"Twice I've had breast cancer but this is different. It's more aggressive this time, unfortunately, and has spread to the top of my spine and left ribs," Richard said.

"My oncologist said I've got several useful years ahead of me but since then it's got worse."

The actress also said she plans to marry her partner, John Burns, and has already organized her funeral and will.

The Sun said the actress has plans to begin chemotherapy treatments Oct. 13 in an attempt to fight the spread of the deadly disease.