Amy Dowden Health Update: Strictly Star Recovers After Mastectomy
Amy Dowden gives health update after mastectomy

Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has shared an encouraging update on her health, just weeks after undergoing another mastectomy procedure. The 35-year-old Welsh dancer, who has been bravely battling health challenges in recent years, appeared on BBC's The One Show to discuss her recovery.

A Positive Recovery Journey

Speaking to hosts Alex Jones and Clara Amfo on Friday, November 28th, Dowden revealed she's feeling remarkably well despite the major surgery she underwent three weeks prior. "Do you know I'm feeling really well. Thank you," the dancer told presenters. She elaborated on her recovery process, explaining that while the first week to ten days were challenging, she's been growing stronger with each passing day.

"Three weeks ago yesterday, I had another mastectomy," Dowden shared openly. "The first week to 10 days, a bit rough, but every day feeling better and stronger." Her positive outlook was evident as she expressed her eagerness to return to what she loves most - dancing.

Looking Towards a Strictly Come Dancing Return

The professional dancer, who has been part of Strictly Come Dancing since 2017, made it clear that she's determined to return to the dance floor, though she emphasised she won't be rushing her recovery. "I'm just itching now to go back on the dance floor when I'm fully recovered," she stated. "Obviously, I'm not gonna rush it, but yeah, doing really well. Thank you."

This latest medical procedure forced Dowden to drop out of the current Strictly Come Dancing season early, where she had been paired with Apprentice star Tom Skinner. Unfortunately, the pairing became the first to be eliminated from the 2025 series, though professional dancers typically remain on the show for group routines.

Clarifying the Medical Situation

In a previous Instagram post earlier this month, Dowden had been careful to clarify an important detail about her health situation. She explicitly stated that this latest mastectomy was not due to a new cancer diagnosis. The dancer has always been transparent about her health journey, having first revealed her breast cancer diagnosis in May 2023.

By February 2024, doctors had given her the welcome news that there was "no sign of the disease," though she has continued to undergo necessary medical treatments. Her recent procedure was decided upon following consultations with her medical team, who anticipate a straightforward recovery.

Looking ahead, Dowden has expressed hope that she'll be able to return to Strictly Come Dancing in 2026. Her recovery journey continues to inspire fans and fellow dancers alike, demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of ongoing health challenges.