BBC Strictly's Amy Dowden shares show return plans after harrowing cancer ordeal: 'Haven't danced in a year!'

BBC Strictly's Amy Dowden shares show return plans after harrowing cancer ordeal: 'Haven't danced in a year!'

WATCH HERE: Amy Dowden celebrates finishing chemotherapy

Olivia Gantzer

By Olivia Gantzer


Published: 05/04/2024

- 08:23

Updated: 05/04/2024

- 08:53

The dancer talked about being given "another shot at life"

Amy Dowden was over the moon in February to share that she no longer had “any evidence of disease” following a breast cancer ordeal.

The Welsh dancer, 33, was forced to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing last year in order to undergo treatment, and has recently given a new update.


Dowden has previously shared she discovered a lump last April just before heading off to the Maldives for her honeymoon with husband Ben Jones.

Shortly after she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and candidly updated fans on her journey.

Earlier this week, the choreographer announced how “grateful” she felt to have been given “another shot at life” as she reflected on how much she missed Strictly.

Speaking on ITV’s Lorraine, she told stand-in host Christine Lampard: “I'm doing really well. I'm back in the incredible Empress Ballroom [in Blackpool].

Amy Dowden

Dowden gave the happy update in February that she no longer had evidence of disease

Getty/ITV

Dowden revealed she'd hit the one-year milestone of discovering the illness: “A year ago I was here with my students and I found the lump and was flying off on honeymoon the next day.

"But I can't believe in this last year I've come full circle, from mastectomy to gruelling chemotherapy treatment, a few obstacles along the way.”

She went on: “But it all worked and I've been given another shot at life and I'm so grateful for that, I really am."

Sharing an admission about the BBC show, Dowden opened up: "I missed being on Strictly so much last year. I've missed dancing.

"I've been working with my physio team, who are incredible, cause I've got a new upper body, I haven't danced in a year, and that is the goal, for me to get back with my Strictly family. So fingers crossed."

Amy Dowden

Dowden updated fans with updates throughout her journey

Getty

Taking to Instagram in February, Dowden shared the good news she no longer had evidence of the illness. She penned: “NO EVIDENCE OF DISEASE! Words I dreamed of! My biggest accomplishment yet!”

“I won’t be getting the all clear for 5 years especially with a hormone fed cancer. But it was all worth it. Words I never thought I’d hear at one point.

"So grateful for all the care I received and continue to have. To my husband, family and friends who supported me unconditionally and to you guys! Thank you!”

She continued: “I will still need a monthly injection for 5 years and regular check ups. Chemo and this past year has certainly took its toll on my body both physically and mentally, so I’ll be taking the next few months to heal and recover.

Amy Dowden

Dowden gave an update as she reflected on being given 'another shot at life'

ITV

“I have so much to strive and live for, and so grateful for another chance at life!

"Something I know not all get. I certainly see life differently and my life has changed forever!

“Cancer affects too many so I will continue to do all I can to raise awareness and make sure I get as many as I can to #checkthemselves.

"It’s time to look ahead after what’s been the toughest year, and one I certainly didn’t expect! Dance floor I’m coming for you! Welsh love, always Amy." (sic)

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