Amy Dowden has said she 'doesn't recognise' the person she was three years ago as she marked an emotional cancer milestone amid her return to screens.
Return to screens
While the Strictly Come Dancing star is preparing for her return to the famous ballroom, with rehearsals for the BBC One dance show's 2026 series already underway, Amy is already back on our screens as she's taking part in the new series of Celebrity Hunted.
The new series got underway on Channel 4 on Monday (August 3) evening and sees Amy team up with her Strictly co-star and friend, Carlos Gu, as they and other celebrity duos try to out-smart some of the most skilled intelligence agencies in the world to see how difficult it is to stay off the radar as a fugitive.
Emotional milestone
The series is back in aid of Channel 4's charity initiative, Stand Up To Cancer, and taking to social media, Amy marked three years since she started chemotherapy for breast cancer.
Speaking in a video posted to her Instagram page, the professional dancer said: "So, three years ago today, I started my first round of chemotherapy. I was walking through the Good Hope Oncology Unit doors so scared of what to come. Pretty much, the most challenging time of my life and I wanted nothing more than to be in a rehearsal room with my Strictly family...
"Fast forward three years, what would I say to that petrified Amy? You did it, girl! I am back with my Strictly family, living life to the full. Go grab life every day, every birthday, every celebration, it's a privilege. Honestly, I feel so blessed and so lucky and honestly, I feel the fittest, strongest, and healthiest I've ever been."
"So, yes, happy three-year chemo anniversary, and I'm just celebrating how far I've come. And what a way to celebrate, then Stand Up to Cancer's Celebrity Hunted airing tonight. It's like everything aligned. Sending all my love to those who need it. Remember, this, too, shall pass. Don't get bitter, get better."
Gratitude and reflection
Captioning the post, Amy also wrote: "Three years ago today, I was absolutely petrified walking through the doors of the oncology unit at Good Hope Hospital to begin intense chemotherapy. All I wanted was to be where I knew I was supposed to be... dancing with my Strictly family.
"Fast forward three years, and here I am happier, healthier, and stronger than ever. Not a single day goes by that I take this life for granted. I will be forever grateful to the incredible doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers who cared for me and gave me the chance to be here doing what I love."
"Today, I finished another day of fun, sweaty rehearsals with my Strictly family, and my heart is so full. Life is precious. Grab it, embrace it, and live it to the fullest. Sending so much love and strength to anyone who needs it right now. Welsh love from one very proud, very happy Amy. #lifeaftercancer #breastcancer #checkyourself #grateful #backdoingwhatilove."
Amy also reposted a video from when she finished her chemotherapy treatment, alongside the message: "So much meaning behind Celeb Hunted! So proud on today's chemo anniversary, how far I've come. I don't even recognise the Amy here! Thanks for all the messages and comments today! Here's to life! Forever grateful!"
