Strictly's Amy Dowden applauded by 'proud' co-stars as she says she's writing a book

Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has been flooded with support from her fans and co-stars after sharing major career news.

The 33-year-old professional dancer was forced to miss out on the last series of Strictly after being diagnosed with breast cancer, but is hoping to get back on the dance floor this year after undergoing a mastectomy and chemotherapy treatment, with her latest check-up showing "no evidence of the disease". And in an exciting update shared with her Instagram followers this week, Amy revealed that she has been busy writing a book all about her career that will be released later this year.

The star wrote in a heartfelt post: "My book Dancing in the Rain is coming this September. I had such a blast shooting the cover and I can't wait to share my story with you."

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Amy went on: "From my first dance lesson, I never wanted to be off the dance floor; when the music is on, nothing else matters, and it has been what has kept me going in the toughest of times. Despite facing the relentless challenges of undiagnosed Crohn's disease and recent breast cancer, my love for dance has remained unwavering.

"In Dancing in the Rain, I share my deeply personal story, which I hope will offer solace and inspiration to anyone navigating life's storms. I want to remind you that no matter the challenge, the human spirit can prevail, and that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. Don't get bitter, get better!"

Amy's Strictly co-stars rushed to congratulate her in the comments section, with Oti Mabuse, Johannes Radebe, Vito Coppola and Lauren Oakley all sending messages of support.

Fellow pro dancer Dianne Buswell wrote: "So proud of you. I can not wait to read this, and it's going to help so many people. Congrats Amy you absolute queen."

And former judge Arlene Phillips said: "Can't wait to read this. You are amazing."

Earlier this week, Strictly head judge Shirley Ballas thanked Amy for motivating her to get checked out for cancer, with the dancer using her platform to encourage others to look out for symptoms following her own diagnosis. Shirley shared the news with fans on Instagram that she had received the all-clear for the disease, after undergoing biopsies following a mammogram last week.

Shirley urged her followers: "Please do not put your mammogram, smear test or in fact any appointment off. They really can change your life. Who knows what may have happened if I put mine off? Get booked, get checked, get your body MOT everyone."