Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has spoken candidly about living with Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition she was diagnosed with at age 19. In a recent BBC film, the Welsh dancer described her illness as a 'battle', saying: 'I live in fear that what I love the most could be taken away. And I've been more ill this year than I have been in a long time.' The severity of her condition has led to a back-up plan being put in place on the Strictly set.
Dowden has also faced cruel online abuse about her appearance, which she attributes to side effects from high-dose intravenous steroids used to control her condition. 'Although it makes me feel better, it creates water retention, making my hips, thighs and bottom bloat and my face puffy,' she explained. 'I want to look my best on the dance floor, but when you get photographed in an unflattering light and people make spiteful comments about your size, it can be very hurtful.'
The dancer has found support from her Strictly co-stars, who have helped her during medical emergencies. Dianne Buswell and Oti Mabuse have checked on her, while Katya Jones once took her to hospital and stayed until 5am. Recalling the incident, Katya said: 'It was definitely an experience and I'm so glad that I was there Amy... I had to be the strong one! I was like, 'Right, what do you do? Keep calm.''
Dowden's fiancé Ben Jones also plays a crucial role in managing her health. He told HELLO magazine: 'Amy gets sleepy, her eyes start to swell and she goes pale. When that happens, she has to stop and rest immediately. If she doesn't, things get worse.'
According to the NHS, Crohn's disease symptoms include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and weight loss, with periods of 'flares' and 'remission'. While there is no cure, medication and dietary adjustments can help manage the condition.
