In 2013, a baby-faced Johnny Ruffo landed a role on Home And Away and quickly hit it off with his co-star Lynne McGranger.
At the time, he had no idea the star, who plays Irene Roberts on the soapie, would play an incredibly important part in his life.
In 2017, Johnny's world was turned upside-down when he was was diagnosed with brain cancer. In 2019, the cancer was officially in remission before it tragically returned in November 2020.
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"After an unexpected week of seizures and excruciating headaches it is with a heavy heart that i have to let you know i now have another huge battle ahead of me as my brain cancer has returned," Johnny announced via his Instagram account alongside a photo of himself and girlfriend Tahnee Sims.
He continued: "Though I will dig deep and beat this sht disease again #fckcancer."
Johnny has famously received immense support from his former Home And Away cast members, the public and his dedicated girlfriend, Tahnee.
But out of everyone from the show, Lynne has actively spent considerable time dedicated to Johnny, and as a result, they have remained close mates since he departed the show.
The two initially bonded on the show thanks to their mutual love of AFL, and they would have a tradition whereby whoever's team finished lower on the table each season owed the other one dinner.
In 2020, Johnny revealed Lynne still plays an important part in his life.
"I still see Lynne McGranger every other week," the actor told Now To Love.
While Lynne described Johnny as the "son she never had" in Channel Seven's News Spotlight: Fight Of His Life special about Johnny's health battle.
During these challenging times, Johnny has kept in good spirits despite the stress he is under physically and mentally.
There's no doubt that Lynne's compassionate and unconditional support has contributed to his ability to power through.
Take a look inside Lynne and Johnny's endearing friendship
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