Paul Foreman will make heartbreaking plans on Coronation Street as he prepares for his final days.
The character was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year, with the storyline subsequently depicting the worsening of his condition as well as his relationship with husband Billy.
In a special episode last month, which was told completely from Paul and Billy’s point of view, Paul outlined his intention to die with dignity before his condition fully progressed, and Billy agreed to the plan.
Paul had a change of heart, however, with next week’s scenes beginning as Paul is happy after Gemma calls in at the flower shop with Joseph and the kids, who are preparing for their first day of school.
Billy takes a photo of the group together, with the moment inspiring Paul to record a list of all the things he would like Billy to do after he passes. Just as he attempts to play the recording, the battery runs out, leaving him demoralised.
Summer takes charge of the situation and orders Billy to leave while she sorts the matter, with Paul getting a haircut from David at the flower shop. David suggests that he and Billy go for a drink, with Paul urging his partner to let his hair down.
With Billy away, Paul asks Kit if they can make up for all of the lost years. Kit agrees, with the pair reminiscing over old times.
With Paul preparing for his final weeks, the storyline was teased in the Corrie trailer for September. A brief clip shows a hurried Billy worrying if he will be able to say goodbye to his husband.
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.
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Coronation Street has been working on Paul’s storyline with support from the MND Association, which focuses on improving access to care, research and campaigning for people affected by motor neurone disease.
The charity’s helpline MND Connect (0808 802 6262) is available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and 7pm to 10.30pm. Calls are free.
