Yahoo News Strictly's Amy Dowden shares message on anniversary of cancer journey
Strictly Come Dancing's Amy Dowden has marked one year since she finished chemotherapy treatment with an emotional Instagram post.
The professional dancer was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer last year, and has been sharing online health updates with fans ever since.
Earlier this year, she revealed the good news that doctors had found "no evidence of disease" in her body after undergoing months of chemotherapy.
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Taking to Instagram yesterday (November 9), Amy shared an emotional clip from the day she finished treatment and reflected on her journey of recovery over the past year.
"Since 09.11.2023 I made a promise to myself that I’d always go grab life," she began. "At the time I didn’t know what was ahead, awaiting tests and I guess the hardest part yet the long recovery from what chemo and surgery does to you.
"I was a 'new' me but deep inside found I had zero confidence. Even until late spring I wasn’t sure I had the confidence to dance again. I just didn’t feel like me. But I’m so glad I pushed through because it’s what has made me truly happy again."
Amy, who recently had to pull out of the 2024 series of Strictly following a foot injury, continued by saying she is disappointed not to be celebrating how she wanted to, on the dancefloor with this year's partner JB Gill, but that she is "so proud" of where she is now in her recovery.
"Importantly I’m alive and living life to the full. I’m forever grateful to @coppafeel and @mrsgifletcher who ultimately got me checking and saved my life. To all the doctors and nurses who have and continue to care for me, thank you.
"Yes life throws many bumps along the way but I’m ensuring these bumps teach me and push me to become better - don’t get bitter, get better. I’ll keep pushing, keep dreaming and make sure I go grab life in every way possible!"
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Macmillan Cancer Support, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.
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