Amy Dowden, a professional dancer on "Strictly Come Dancing," is reflecting on her physical health as she prepares for her return to the show. Dowden, 35, recently shared a bikini photo on Instagram from a holiday in Ibiza, expressing gratitude for the memories.
Dowden was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023 and underwent treatment, including a mastectomy. She received the all-clear from doctors in February 2024 but continued with monthly chemotherapy sessions to maintain remission. Following her treatment, a fan inquired about her regained muscle tone and fitness, prompting Dowden to share details of her recovery.
She explained that she worked with physiotherapists on a personalized plan that was adjusted as needed. "It was built personally for me, around my surgeries," she stated. Her treatment regimen included an early, medically induced menopause to combat hormone-fed cancer, which she said contributed to bone fragility. "I needed building strength especially after having broken bones after chemo etc. I've been put into menopause so again building bone strength too to help along with getting my flexibility and stamina back as a dancer," Dowden explained.
Dowden previously shared that she underestimated the impact chemotherapy had on her bones. Three days after finishing chemotherapy in November 2023, she broke her foot. Later, after returning to "Strictly," she suffered a stress fracture, leading to her early withdrawal from the 2024 series. "I probably rushed too soon to get back on the dance floor," she admitted last year on "The Dr Hilary Show" podcast. "My body hadn't fully recovered and healed."
She elaborated, "I guess I didn't realise the full impact chemo has on your bones. I broke my foot three days after finishing chemotherapy. And then when I went back onto Strictly last year, I had a hairline fracture."
Dowden has been sharing posts about her recovery journey, including one caption that read: "Three years ago today, I had just recently just my breast removed and was currently undergoing fertility treatment before starting chemotherapy... 'I was terrified, not only of the treatment itself, but of being thrown into a forced menopause because my cancer is hormone-fed. Fast forward exactly three years, and my perspective on life has completely changed... I live each day to the fullest, with so much gratitude for the little things I once took for granted. I know how lucky I am, and I never lose sight of that. Every day is a gift, and I’m determined to make the most of it... Here’s to resilience, hope, and celebrating every milestone."
Amy Dowden is confirmed to return as a professional dancer for the 2026 series of "Strictly Come Dancing."