Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has revealed she will undergo a second mastectomy this week as part of her ongoing recovery from breast cancer.
The 35-year-old dancer, who was first diagnosed in May 2023, has been open about every stage of her journey — from chemotherapy and fertility treatments to a terrifying battle with sepsis. Doctors found no evidence of cancer in her body earlier this year, but Amy explained she won’t be officially “all clear” for another five years.
Sharing the news on Instagram, Amy reassured fans: “This is not to treat a new cancer diagnosis. After a recent appointment with my incredible medical team, we’ve decided that I’ll be having another mastectomy this week. They’re confident that, all going well, I can expect a straightforward recovery.”
Amy, who was eliminated early from this year’s Strictly alongside Thomas Skinner, added that she’s determined to heal and return to the show soon. “Once I’ve recovered, I can’t wait to rejoin my Strictly family. Of course, I’ll miss being there, but I’ll be cheering everyone on from home. Thank you always for your support. Welsh love, Amy.”
Over the past year, Amy has remained a voice of strength and positivity for cancer survivors. She’s admitted to feeling “heartbroken” after being voted off Strictly first this season, saying she felt she had “let down the cancer community” who saw her as a symbol of hope. “I wanted to show what’s possible after cancer,” she said. “But happiness, health and being alive are the most important things.”
The dancer, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer just a year after her wedding, said her life changed completely the moment she found a lump before her honeymoon. “It was solid and it wasn’t on the other breast,” she recalled. “If you ever feel unsure, go to the GP. Don’t worry about being a nuisance — that’s what the healthcare system is there for.”
Now, as Amy prepares for another surgery, she continues to inspire by sharing her story. “I was naïve — I thought ringing the bell meant life would instantly go back to normal. I didn’t realise how long recovery would take, physically and mentally. But dancing has kept me going. It’s what makes me happiest.”
