Amy Dowden shares emotional message as she holidays with twin and Strictly star
Amy Dowden is ensuring she takes time to smell the roses after she beat cancer earlier this year.
The 33-year-old performer - best known as one of the Strictly Come Dancing professional dancers - was given the good news from doctors last month that treatment had left “no sign of the disease” after she had been diagnosed with cancer the year before. It will still be five years before she can be officially given the “all clear”, but Amy is making it clear to fans that she is enjoying her life now she has no more treatment to endure.
The TV star is currently holidaying in Marrakesh in Morocco along with her twin sister Rebecca and her fellow Strictly star Carlos Gu, 31. The trio have been taking in the sights, hitting up the sauna, and enjoying lavish meals - with all the highlights being shared via their respective social media outlets.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Amy took a moment out of her holiday to take some time to reflect on how much her life has been changed in recent weeks. The dance star shared photographs of herself relaxing beside a huge rose bush - while also sharing a snap of herself taking a moment to smell the delicate flowers.
She shared an empowering statement alongside the images. She wrote: “Stop and smell the roses. After the past few months this quote is one I remind myself of daily ‘You’re only here for a short visit. Don’t hurry. Don’t worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.’ Having such a lovely time with my twin @becky_dowden and it’s so lush @gkx_carlos booked on for a surprise.”
EastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likenessFans and followers of the start were quick to sent Amy messages of support with one writing in the comments: “You are just beautiful! I hope you all have the best time! So well deserved.” Many also took a moment to let the star know they appreciated her new look - as she showed off newly dyed blonde hair. One wrote: “Your hair looks fantastic! Really suits you.”
Last month, Amy delighted fans when she revealed treatment against cancer had been successful. Posing on Instagram, she wrote: “NO EVIDENCE OF DISEASE! Words I dreamed of! My biggest accomplishment yet! I won’t be getting the all clear for 5 years especially with a hormone fed cancer. But it was all worth it. Words I never thought I’d hear at one point. So grateful for all the care I received and continue to have.
"To my husband, family and friends who supported me unconditionally and to you guys! Thank you! I will still need a monthly injection for 5 years and regular check ups. Chemo and this past year has certainly took its toll on my body both physically and mentally, so I’ll be taking the next few months to heal and recover. I have so much to strive and live for, and so grateful for another chance at life! Something I know not all get. I certainly see life differently and my life has changed forever!
"Cancer affects too many so I will continue to do all I can to raise awareness and make sure I get as many as I can to #checkthemselves. It’s time to look ahead after what’s been the toughest year, and one I certainly didn’t expect!" Making it clear she intends to return to Strictly this year after being forced to bow out as a star dancer due to her health battle, she signed off at the time: "Dance floor I’m coming for you! Welsh love always, Amy."