Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Ali Bastian has opened up about the emotional toll of waiting for her annual mammogram results, describing the experience as traumatic and revealing a delay in her breast reconstruction surgery as a 'huge blow'.
Cancer Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
The 44-year-old actress, best known for roles in Hollyoaks and The Bill, was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer after discovering a lump while breastfeeding her daughter. She underwent chemotherapy, a successful mastectomy, and radiotherapy, and announced she was cancer-free in March 2025. She continues her recovery.
Waiting for Mammogram Results
On Sunday, Ali shared on Instagram that she had her annual mammogram on her remaining breast and is awaiting results. 'Still awaiting my results, hoping no news is good news. Two years since my diagnosis,' she wrote. She admitted that visiting the breast clinic stirred up intense anxiety, saying, 'A voice in my head was saying, ‘just don’t go… drive to the beach… f**k it…. Drive to the airport and get on a plane!’ Anything other than going back to that place.'
Reconstruction Surgery Delayed
During the hospital visit, Ali learned that her breast reconstruction surgery has been postponed until next year. 'I found out that my reconstruction won’t be until next year which felt like a blow,' she shared. The operation will also address a hernia, giving her more time to prepare mentally and physically. 'It’s a big op though as I’m having my hernia sorted at the same time so at least I have a few more months to physically and mentally prepare and figure out how we will manage my recovery with work and kids to juggle,' she explained.
Sharing to Connect with Others
Ali concluded her post by expressing solidarity with others facing similar fears: 'Not sure why I’m sharing really… just wanted to say… if you have those ‘… drive to the airport’ feelings, I have them too! Good to get these appointments done and dusted and gently return to life I know I am so very grateful to be rebuilding, even if some days are hard.'
Strictly Come Dancing Past
Ali competed in the seventh series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2009, partnered with professional dancer Brian Fortuna. The pair finished in third place and later won the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special.
