Strictly Come Dancing superstar, Amy Dowden, has shared that she’s officially started treatment for her breast cancer diagnosis.
Last month, the professional dancer announced that she had been diagnosed with grade III breast cancer but was 'determined' to get back on the Strictly ballroom floor.
The statement she shared with her 370,000 followers read: “Hey all, I’ve got some news which isn’t easy to share.
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“I’ve recently been diagnosed with breast cancer but I’m determined to get back on that dance floor before you know it. Welsh love Amy.”
The 32-year-old discovered a lump on her breast in April.
It’s said she found it before jetting off on a delayed honeymoon to the Maldives with her husband, Ben Jones.
Following her return, Dowden has kept fans updated on her diagnosis progress.
On Wednesday 7 June, Dowden shared a snap in a hospital gown to her Instagram Feed.
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In the picture, the dancer is holding up both of her thumbs, wearing a hospital gown, and smiling into the camera.
In the caption, she wrote: “Step one to beating cancer! (sic) Ready for this fight and more determined than ever to get back on the dance floor.”
The Strictly star also included various hashtags used to raise awareness of breast cancer: '#breastcanceryoung' and '#checkyourchest'.
Famous friends and familiar faces have flocked to the comments to pledge their support, and offer kind words of encouragement.
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Her 32-year-old colleague, Gorka Marquez, wrote, “You got this,” while Italian dance champion, Vito Coppola, said, “Come on @amy_downden you are strong”.
Host of Steph’s Packed Lunch, Steph McGovern wrote: “Good luck Amy. We’re all rooting for you”.
Radio 2 host and former Strictly: It Takes Two presenter, Zoe Ball, commented: “Huge love and strength to you beautiful Amy”.
It’s thought that if the British champion’s health improves, she may be able to return for 'special episodes' of BBC’s prized dance programme.
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The show is due to return in September and will be hoping to have the household name involved.
Dowden, who has a Guinness World Record for the most back-Charleston kick-steps in 30 seconds, joined Strictly in season 15.
In her first year, she placed 12th with English actor and comedian, Brian Conley.
In 2019, she came second in the competition with partner, Karim Zeroual, before finishing 6th with JJ Chalmers a year later.
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Her most recent stint on the show was the Christmas special, where she danced alongside CBeebies presenter, George Webster.
Featured Image Credit: amy_dowden/InstagramTopics: BBC, Celebrity, Strictly Come Dancing, Health