In Coronation Street, Debbie Webster has been at the centre of one of the soap’s most emotional and complex storylines in recent months, and her relationship with Ronnie Bailey has been dramatically affected as events unfold.

Debbie, a long-standing favourite on the cobbles, has been grappling with a series of disturbing health and personal challenges that go far beyond everyday soap drama. After experiencing moments of confusion, memory lapses and a frightening collapse, she undergoes medical tests and receives a diagnosis of vascular dementia — a life-altering condition that she initially tries to keep secret from those closest to her.

Rather than sharing her diagnosis openly, Debbie chooses to internalise the fear and embarrassment that come with the news. This causes considerable strain in her relationship with Ronnie, who had been planning a future with her and even contemplating marriage. Debbie’s anxiety about being treated differently or pitied leads her to push Ronnie away — at one point ending their engagement and telling him that she no longer loves him, even though her feelings remain strong beneath the surface.

Ronnie is left heartbroken and confused by Debbie’s sudden coldness. While he initially believes he has done something wrong, he soon learns that her behaviour is linked to her deteriorating health rather than any lack of love. Despite the breakup, a deep emotional bond still exists between them, and Ronnie later steps up to support Debbie at vulnerable moments.

Their relationship has been further complicated by other community tensions and misunderstandings, including instances where Debbie misinterprets Ronnie’s interactions with other neighbours, and his own attempts to move on. While Debbie’s inner turmoil sometimes leads to conflict, it’s clear that both characters care deeply for one another — even if pride, fear and confusion have kept them apart.

The story has been one of the most poignant and talked-about in recent Coronation Street arcs, blending personal struggle, emotional resilience and the painful realities of real-world health issues. As Debbie continues to navigate life with dementia and face changes in her relationships and responsibilities, viewers can expect more difficult but deeply human moments ahead.