Marcia Cross' cancer-stricken husband has "a big battle ahead." The "Desperate Housewives" star's spouse Tom Mahoney was diagnosed with the potentially fatal disease last year and her mother Janet Cross admits the future is uncertain for the couple, as it is not yet known if Tom will survive his battle with the illness.

Janet told Britain's Closer magazine: "It's heartbreaking to see Tom so ill - he's got a big battle ahead of him."

"Desperate Housewives" star, Marcia Cross' stockbroker husband has been diagnosed with cancer. Tom Mahoney is currently being treated for an undisclosed form of cancer. The actress's rep, Heidi Slan, says he is responding very well to the treatment.

Cross has credited her husband's love and support with her own happiness. The actress told People shortly after they were engaged, "I think beauty comes from being happy and connected to the people we love and his love makes me feel beautiful."