Paul moved by emotional milestone in Coronation Street as the reality of his death draws close
It’s back to school this coming week in Coronation Street, which gives Paul Foreman (Peter Ash) the opportunity to once again think about what he’s going to miss out on when he isn’t here.
Paul has motor neurone disease. He was diagnosed last year and since then, we’ve watched the Paul we’ve known and loved for ages become slowly consumed by an illness that will ultimately take his life.
During an appointment recently, Paul learnt that he cannot use the stair lift anymore due to his bones being too weak. Until Billy (Daniel Brocklebank) and him can find a flat that doesn’t have stairs, Paul is unfortunately confined to the four walls of his home.
Before this happened, for one last trip out, Billy told Paul they could do whatever he wanted.
Throughout the day, Paul and Billy visited the church they’d got married in, before heading to the Rovers for a drink with friends.
Paul was pleased that he had Billy their to translate for him when he struggled to speak, but it soon became clear that Billy couldn’t understand everything he was saying.
They also visited the Winter/Brown household, and saw Summer (Harriet Bibby), who was heading on a night out.
Because he is stuck at the flat, Paul is absolutely delighted this coming week when Gemma (Dolly-Rose Campbell) arrives with Joseph (William Flanagan) and the quads, who are ready for their first day at school.
To mark the occasion, Billy takes some pictures of all of them together. A sweet moment but once again, a reminder Paul won’t be around to watch his nieces and nephews grow up for much longer.
In the week, Paul sets about recording a manifesto of all the things he’d like Billy to do after he’s gone. Frustratingly, the synthesiser runs out of power just as he attempts to play it to Billy and Summer.
Summer takes charge and tells Billy to go and get some fresh air while she sorts things out.
With Billy gone, can Summer help Paul?