Strictly Come Dancing’s beloved professional dancer Amy Dowden has opened up about a terrifying new health scare, revealing that doctors have discovered “specks” on her other breast — prompting a series of fresh biopsies.
The 34-year-old dancer, who captured the nation’s heart with her bravery and positivity throughout her battle with breast cancer, shared the emotional news during an appearance on The Dr Hilary Show podcast.
“I’ve Had Some Scares…”
During the intimate conversation, Amy began by expressing relief that she is currently in remission, with “no evidence of disease” in her body. “Yes,” she said, gently touching the wooden wall beside her — a small gesture for luck.
But her tone shifted as she bravely admitted that her journey is far from over.
“I’ve had some scares with specks on the breast, on my other breast, which has not been pleasant,” Amy confessed.
“I’ve had more biopsies done on that breast.”
The discovery has left her facing another round of uncertainty — and the possibility of more difficult decisions ahead.
Family History and the Weight of ‘Big Decisions’
When asked by Dr Hilary Jones about genetic testing, Amy revealed that she does not carry the BRCA gene, which is commonly linked to inherited breast cancers.
However, she added that breast cancer runs in her family — including her mother and several generations of women before her.
“So obviously big decisions will need to be made in the future,” she admitted, her voice steady but emotional.
Dr Hilary reassured her that the NHS oncologists monitoring her case were among the best in the country. “I’m in very, very good hands,” Amy agreed, smiling faintly through the uncertainty.
“Can I Have Both Off?” — Amy’s Earlier Fear Comes Full Circle
In an earlier episode of the Breast Cancer Uncovered podcast, Amy recalled her initial diagnosis in May 2023 — a moment that changed her life forever.
She revealed that when doctors told her she needed a mastectomy, her first instinct was to ask if she could remove both breasts.
“When I was told I needed a mastectomy, I straight away said: ‘Can I have both off?’ Because what I didn’t want was to get back on with my life and for the cancer to come back in the other breast,” she explained.
“I didn’t want to come back and deal with it again. I just wanted to get on with my life.”
At the time, doctors found additional tumours and a second type of cancer, forcing Amy to undergo chemotherapy and months of grueling treatment. In February 2024, she received the news everyone had prayed for — she was cancer-free.
Now, the discovery of new “specks” has brought back the fear she thought she’d left behind.
Courage, Resilience, and an Unbreakable Spirit
Despite her ongoing health worries, Amy has refused to let fear control her life. This year, she made a brave return to Strictly Come Dancing, partnering with The Apprentice star Thomas Skinner.
Though their journey ended early — the pair were eliminated in week two — Amy’s presence on the dance floor was nothing short of inspirational. Fans flooded social media with messages of love and admiration for the dancer they affectionately call “the heartbeat of Strictly.”
One fan wrote:
“Amy Dowden is pure strength. Watching her dance again brought tears to my eyes. She’s living proof that you can fight through the darkest times and still shine.”
A Message of Hope
Amy’s honesty and courage continue to inspire millions — especially those facing similar battles.
Though the road ahead remains uncertain, she’s determined to keep dancing, keep smiling, and keep fighting.
“I’ve learned that life is precious. You have to grab every moment and never take your health for granted,” Amy once said.
As she awaits her latest biopsy results, fans across the nation are sending her love, strength, and prayers — hoping that this chapter, too, ends with good news.
