Amy Dowden, a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, faced another cancer scare recently, throwing her return to the show into doubt. The 34-year-old, who was twice diagnosed with cancer last year, was rushed back to the hospital for further tests after abnormalities were found in her breast during a check-up.
The news left Amy feeling “crushed” and she had sleepless nights waiting for the results. However, after getting the all-clear from her consultant, she expressed gratitude, saying, “we haven’t had good news much, so thank you.”
The latest health scare was captured by BBC cameras filming Strictly Amy: Cancer and Me, a documentary that follows Amy’s journey from diagnosis to her return to the dance floor this autumn. Despite the worrying time, Amy credits dancing for getting her through her darkest moments.
After receiving her second round of a chemo drug nicknamed “red devil,” Amy began feeling sick and the results of her annual MRI and mammogram put her back on hold. Doctors found widespread calcium deposits in her breast, raising concerns about the possibility of invasive breast cancer.
Amy’s father, Richard, expressed devastation over the news, saying, “It’s another blow. For us, it has taken quite a toll. I just wish I could have it all for her.” Despite feeling anxious and reliving past memories, Amy was relieved when further tests revealed the abnormalities were benign changes.
With the all-clear, Amy can now focus on her return to Strictly Come Dancing, a show she describes as her “happy place.” She credits the support she received from the show during her cancer journey and expresses pride in being part of a program that brings joy and happiness to viewers.
Amy believes that Strictly saved her life, as a breast cancer charity walk with Giovanna Fletcher prompted her to check her own breasts. She is excited to be back on the dance floor and considers it a magical experience. Amy’s resilience and determination to overcome her health challenges serve as an inspiration to many, and her return to Strictly is eagerly anticipated by fans.
