Key Highlights
- Amy Dowden opens up about her breast cancer journey on Instagram.
- The 35-year-old dancer marks a significant milestone two years after diagnosis.
- Dowden shares emotional words of encouragement for those facing similar challenges.
- She reflects on the impact of her health struggles and how far she has come.
Amy Dowden’s Emotional Update: A Journey Through Breast Cancer
Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has shared an emotional update on Instagram, marking a significant milestone two years since her breast cancer diagnosis. The 35-year-old Welsh dancer opened up about her journey in a post that resonated with many of her followers.
The Breast Cancer Journey
Dowden was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023, just before she embarked on her honeymoon with husband Benjamin Jones. Following the diagnosis, she underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy. In February 2024, she shared good news that doctors had informed her there was “no evidence of disease,” allowing her to make a triumphant return to Strictly Come Dancing later that year.
Returning to the Dance Floor
Amy Dowden’s return to the dance floor was met with both excitement and concern, as an injury forced her to withdraw from the competition. She was partnered with Thomas Skinner for the 23rd series of Strictly Come Dancing but they were eliminated in their first dance-off against Chris Robshaw and Nadia Bychkova.
Despite the setback, Dowden continued her journey by announcing that she would undergo a second mastectomy. The decision was made after consultation with her medical team following a check-up, reports the Manchester Evening News. However, this surgery did not stem from a new cancer diagnosis but rather a preventive measure based on professional advice.
A Milestone and Reflection
Two months post-surgery, Amy Dowden took to Instagram on January 3, 2026, to reflect on the journey she had undertaken. She posted a photo from her appearance on ITV’s chat show Lorraine, showing her shaved head. The caption read: “Two years ago today!
I don’t recognise myself!”
She expressed how scared and robbed of her past year she felt, sharing that all she wanted was to be back on the dance floor with her old body. Dowden also acknowledged the struggles she had kept hidden from the public eye.
Commitment to Awareness and Fundraising
“I’m so proud of how far I’ve come and really hoping I’m helping those going through and sadly about to go through those words ‘sorry, it’s cancer’,” Dowden wrote. She promised to always do all she can to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer.
The post was met with overwhelming support from fans who praised her candidness and resilience. One follower commented: “so proud of you ames and so proud of how far you’ve come, biggest inspiration forever.” Another added: “Amy you are such an inspiration to anybody who is suffering such a cruel dreadful disease.
We love you and we are here.”
As Dowden continues her journey, she remains a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and support systems in the fight against breast cancer.
