Strictly's Shirley Ballas calls Amy Dowden a 'rock' following major health update

Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas has confirmed that she has received the "all clear" after having a series of cancer tests. The BBC show's head judge shared the major health update on Instagram on Tuesday, April 30, as she urged others not to put their mammograms or smear tests off.

The 63-year-old thanked fans for their well wishes as she told fans she'd had two mammograms, one ultrasound, and three biopsies. She told her followers she felt "blessed" that all her results had come back clear in a heartfelt message on Instagram

Shirley wrote: "Thank you to you all for your well wishes following my two mammograms, one ultrasound and three biopsies last week. I am feeling blessed to share that my results have come back all clear - there is no cancer present."

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Sharing a statement she then continued: "I am feeling blessed to share that my results have come back all clear - there is no cancer present. Sharing the picture to my story last week very much triggered my emotions, but I feel it's only right for me to share both the highs and the lows of life. If I was able to help just one lady, then sharing my picture was worth it.

"I got my recall while on holiday and I immediately cleared my diary to allow for the appointment. I urge all women to do the same. 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.

"With immense gratitude to friends, family and fans who reached out. I appreciate you more than you know. Love and hugs, Shirley."

Shirley tagged Amy Dowden in the post, who has bravely documented her own battle after being diagnosed with breast cancer last year, as well as Macmillan Cancer Support. Commenting on the post, Amy wrote: "So pleased for you. Have been worried! Well done for getting the message out there and raising awareness. Lots of love."

Responding, Shirley called Amy a "rock" and said: "Amy Dowden you are a rock to so many. Love you. For the grace of god go I."

It comes after Shirley recently shared a photograph of herself in bandages alongside a message to others. She wrote at the time: "Urging all women do not miss your mammogram. I went for mine, ended up going for a second one and a biopsy. Local anaesthetic biopsy done. Now waiting for results. Amy Dowden you ran through my mind. The importance of not putting it off. Go and get tested. Plus self breast check regularly."

Amy responded: "Always here for you! Important message here all from @shirleyballas." You can keep up to date with the latest TV and showbiz news by signing up to the newsletter here.