Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has opened up with moving honesty in a new health update, admitting there was a time she barely recognised the person staring back at her — and using that moment to make a heartfelt promise to her fans.
The 35-year-old professional dancer reflected on a past appearance on ITV’s Lorraine, sharing a photo taken at the height of her cancer treatment. Sitting in the studio chair with her head shaved, Amy said the image still stops her in her tracks.
“Two years ago today — I don’t recognise myself,” she wrote. “I know how scared I was. I felt robbed of the year ahead and mourned the old me so deeply. All I wanted was to be back on that dance floor.”
A Journey Marked by Strength and Setbacks
Amy was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023, after discovering a lump just one day before leaving for her honeymoon with husband Benjamin Jones. What followed was a life-changing period that included a mastectomy and chemotherapy.
In February 2024, Amy shared the hopeful news that doctors found “no evidence of disease,” allowing her to return to Strictly Come Dancing later that year. She partnered with JB Gill but was ultimately forced to withdraw due to injury.
The following series saw her paired with The Apprentice star Thomas Skinner, though the pair were the first to be eliminated. Shortly after, Amy revealed she had undergone a second mastectomy — not due to a new cancer diagnosis, but a preventative decision made alongside her medical team.
Despite everything, Amy remained a visible and inspiring presence on Strictly, appearing in the Clauditorium during Blackpool Week and performing in the emotional return dance during December’s final.
“I’m So Proud of How Far I’ve Come”
Looking back on her earlier self, Amy admitted she wished she could reassure the woman who was quietly struggling behind the scenes.
“I wanted my old body back. My old me,” she wrote. “I’d tell her how proud I am of how far she’s come — and how strong she truly was, even when she didn’t feel it.”
Now focused on recovery and resilience, Amy says her journey has given her a renewed sense of purpose.
“I really hope I’m helping those who are going through — or about to hear — those words: ‘Sorry, it’s cancer,’” she shared.
A Promise Moving Forward
Amy ended her message with a powerful vow that struck a chord with fans:
“I promise always to do all I can to raise awareness and funds. Tonight, I celebrate all the little wins I wish I’d celebrated along the way.”
Her comments section quickly filled with messages of love, admiration, and support, with fans praising her honesty and strength during what has been another challenging year.
From fear to hope, and from heartbreak back to the dance floor, Amy Dowden’s story is one of courage — and a reminder that even the smallest victories are worth celebrating. 💖✨
