Amy Dowden shares cancer battle and return to Strictly

Amy Dowden, a professional dancer on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, has opened up about her cancer recovery journey during an appearance on BBC Breakfast. Dowden discussed her upcoming documentary, *Strictly Amy: Cancer And Me*, which premieres on August 26. She expressed her desire to transform her challenging experience into a positive message, emphasizing the importance of early detection and self-examination. Dowden hopes her story will inspire others to take proactive steps in monitoring their health. Reflecting on her diagnosis, Dowden revealed that she discovered a lump just before her honeymoon in May 2023, leading to a stage three breast cancer diagnosis. After undergoing chemotherapy and a mastectomy, she received the encouraging news of "no evidence of disease" in February 2024. Despite the emotional toll of her journey, including a second cancer scare, Dowden remains optimistic and excited about her return to the dance floor, describing it as her "happy place." Throughout her treatment, Dowden faced not only physical challenges but also emotional struggles, including hurtful online comments. She highlighted the need for greater awareness and understanding of the impact of such remarks on individuals battling health issues. Dowden's documentary aims to shed light on the realities of living with cancer, including the emotional and physical challenges faced during treatment. As she prepares to return to Strictly, Dowden expressed gratitude for the support she received from her colleagues and fans. She described the show as a source of joy and motivation during her recovery, stating, "I'm so happy and grateful to be back on @bbcstrictly."