Amy Dowden, the celebrated Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer, has candidly shared her ongoing battle with cancer and the journey to accepting her transformed body. At 33 years old, Amy has endured a series of health challenges, beginning with a breast cancer diagnosis in May of last year, which ultimately led to a mastectomy in 2023.

Following her mastectomy, Amy was confronted with yet another form of cancer, necessitating chemotherapy. Her health struggles also included battles with sepsis, a blood clot in her lung, and a broken foot, preventing her from fully participating in the most recent series of the BBC One dance competition. However, she made a triumphant return to the dance floor as part of a group performance in the December final.

Amy married her husband Ben Jones in 2022, and their honeymoon in the Maldives was overshadowed by the discovery of a lump in her breast, the day before they were due to leave. Recently, the couple embarked on a second honeymoon to Grenada, where Amy shared her determination to rebuild her life after her health challenges.

Reflecting on the past year, Amy acknowledged, “The past year has been tough,” with a cancer diagnosis, treatment, mastectomy, and various setbacks. She expressed her determination to move forward, saying, “But I’m determined to get my life back on track. Finally, we are honeymooning in Grenada!”

Amy also revealed that Ben was unaware of the lump she discovered during their first honeymoon, and she had kept it a secret from him. She described how this second honeymoon had a different atmosphere, as she is now confronting her illness more openly.

Amy admitted that it may take time for her to fully recover from her ordeal but emphasised her commitment to staying positive and accepting the changes her illness has brought about. She remarked, “I’ve got a new body, I’ve got scars. But I think it’s something that I’ve got to learn over time I’m going to accept. It’s not going to just happen overnight.”

With a hopeful outlook, Amy acknowledged the challenges she faces in adapting to her new body and expressed optimism for the future. She added, “I’m being put into situations that I wasn’t at home. Having to put a bikini on, being all exposed in summer wear rather than at home wrapped up in jumpers, jeans, and boots. Hopefully, it’s only going to get progressively better!”

Warm wishes and support go out to Amy as she continues her journey towards recovery and body acceptance.