Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has opened up about the profound grief she experiences over her changed body following life-saving surgery.
The dancer, who underwent a double mastectomy as part of her breast cancer treatment, spoke candidly alongside fellow survivor Kelly Crump about their shared experiences.
"Both Kelly and I both have had double masectomies. Do we mourn our old bodies?
"Absolutely. I would do anything in the world to have my old body back," Ms Dowden said.
Amy Dowden has issued a health update
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Despite the emotional toll, the Welsh performer expressed deep appreciation for the procedure that preserved her life.
"But the reality is I've had a double masectomy. It saved my life. I'm grateful to be here. I certainly don't see it as a free boob job," she added, speaking in an Instagram Stories post.
Ms Dowden also revealed the heartbreaking reality that breastfeeding will never be an option for her following the surgery, touching on the deeply personal implications for any future family plans.
The Strictly professional acknowledged that speaking publicly about such intimate matters often invites unwanted scrutiny from social media users.
"But I will never have the option to breastfeed. And sometimes people online are ready to attack you," she stated.
The breast cancer campaigner continues to use her public profile to encourage others to prioritise their health, regularly urging her followers to examine themselves for potential warning signs.
The dancer has become a prominent voice in raising awareness about the importance of early detection and regular check-ups since her diagnosis.
Her journey through treatment and recovery was documented in the BBC film Strictly Amy: Cancer and Me, which offered viewers an intimate look at her experience battling the disease.
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Amy Dowden underwent cancer treatment in 2023
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Elsewhere, Ms Dowden recently shared some career wishes outside of Strictly.
Speaking to GB News at the TV Choice Awards earlier this month, the choreographer explained: "I would absolutely love to be on Celebrity Traitors, I'd definitely say yes!"
Last year's celeb edition of the popular show saw comedian-turned-villainous Traitor Alan Carr being crowned winner after he managed to deceive his co-stars into thinking he was a Faithful.
Reigning Strictly champion Mr Gu expressed an interest to compete in the BBC series alongside Ms Down.
Amy Dowden shared her hopes for the future
| CHANNEL 4He joked: "The whole point for me going on The Traitors is actually for showing my outfits."
Sporting a stylish ensemble of jeans, a denim jacket, and a white shirt complete with a patterned black and grey tie, he quipped: "I'll bring my whole suitcase and show my outfits!
"But it's just an amazing show, and I love everything Claudia does."