Amy Dowden, a professional dancer known for her role on the BBC's 'Strictly Come Dancing', has spoken openly about the profound impact her battle with breast cancer has had on her personal life, particularly her desire to have children. The 35-year-old has revealed that a "dark cloud" hangs over her as she faces the possibility of medically-induced menopause, a consequence of her chemotherapy treatment. This development casts a shadow over her long-held wish to become a mother.
Dowden's candid reflections stem from her diagnosis in May 2023, which led to a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and fertility treatments. She has also experienced sepsis and undergone further surgery. The dancer has publicly expressed that cancer has "taken away her dancing shoes" and left her feeling like she will "never get the old Amy back." This sentiment underscores a broader concern about regaining her former physical capabilities and sense of self.
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Her journey back to the dance floor, while a testament to her resilience, has been fraught with doubt. Dowden admitted to considering retirement, acknowledging a loss of flexibility and speed—key attributes for a professional dancer. She credits her husband, Ben, and fellow 'Strictly' professional Carlos Gu with providing the support necessary to overcome these hurdles and return to performing.
Dowden has spoken of creating five embryos with her husband, Ben Jones, as a measure to preserve their options for starting a family. However, the forced menopause introduces significant uncertainty regarding the viability of these plans. She has described the emotional toll of this uncertainty, admitting to crying herself to sleep at times due to fear and a lack of energy.
Beyond her personal aspirations, Dowden's fight with cancer has become a public narrative of inspiration. Despite her health struggles, which have included scares involving specks on her remaining breast and living with Crohn's disease, she has actively engaged with public awareness campaigns, appearing on programs like 'Stand Up To Cancer'. She also received an honour from the King, reflecting her prominent role in discussing chemotherapy.
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Her return to 'Strictly Come Dancing' in recent seasons has been met with public admiration. In the last series, she was partnered with Thomas Skinner, an 'Apprentice' contestant, and previously with JB Gill. While she has been able to return to dancing, and is slated to tour with a friend, the long-term implications of her health, particularly regarding future motherhood, remain a significant personal concern. Dowden views her recovery and return to certain aspects of her life as "closing a chapter" but acknowledges that "big decisions need to be made" concerning her future.
Background
Amy Dowden's battle with breast cancer became public knowledge in 2023. Her subsequent treatment involved a rigorous regimen, including chemotherapy and surgical procedures. The experience has evidently reshaped her perspective on life, career, and personal ambitions. Dowden has previously spoken about her career beginning with a disco dancing competition alongside her twin sister, Rebecca, an early indication of her lifelong passion for dance.
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