Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has paid an emotional tribute to her friend Nicky Newman, who has died after a battle with breast cancer. The 33-year-old dancer shared Nicky's farewell post on social media, along with a heartfelt promise to 'grab life' in her memory.
Nicky, known online as NickNackLou, was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer five and a half years ago, which had spread to her bones. In a pre-written message shared after her death, she urged followers to 'cherish those around you' and 'grab life', as 'you never truly know what is coming around the corner'.
Amy, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer earlier this year, described Nicky as 'the most beautiful ray of sunshine' and a 'true inspiration'. She recalled turning to Nicky's page for guidance when she learned she needed a port for treatment, and said she would 'forever hold onto your lovely voice notes'.
The Strictly star has been documenting her own cancer journey, recently revealing she is halfway through her planned chemotherapy. She has spoken candidly about the difficulty of losing her hair, saying she now has meltdowns when washing it once a week and has stopped brushing it to cope.
Amy's tribute concluded with a poignant promise: 'I promise to grab life and deeply miss your radiance and positivity.'
