Amy Dowden says its 'been tough long slog’ after unexpected end
2024 was another tough year for Welsh Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Amy Dowden as although she made her triumphant return to the Strictly dancefloor, after missing the previous series due to her breast cancer diagnosis, her time on the show was cut short. Amy sadly had to withdraw from the competition, meaning her celebrity partner JB Gill had to re-partner with Lauren Oakley, after a foot injury.
Now she has recovered from the foot injury Amy was able to join the celebrities and professional dancers on the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour and reflected on a tough year after the tour ended. Posting a series of pictures from the tour, including some behind-the-scenes snaps, Amy wrote a lengthy caption.
She said: "I’ve always loved the @strictlycomedancinglive arena tour but I didn’t realise how much I needed this tour! My confidence, stamina, inner belief and dancing heart is beaming right now and is BACK BABY!
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"It probably doesn’t seem it but since my recovery began my confidence is something I’ve really struggled with. There was many times I didn’t think my body could do a 10 show week again.
"My body changed and building my stamina has been one tough long slog. Throughout it all I wanted to be kind to myself and body, as it’s been through so much and ultimately made me survive!
"But I did it. Finally I can say I feel like I did or if not stronger than the Amy early 2023. Every day in recovery I felt stronger and stronger but it’s not since recently I can honestly say Yes this is how it feels to have my strength and energy back!
"I remember this feeling! I’m so grateful, as I know this isn’t always the case for everyone. Chemo is brutal and tough! This tour has been an utter joy, performing to such big brilliant audiences is a feeling I’ve missed and it’s not taken for granted.
"The smile hasn’t left my face since show one. Being able to dance with @jbgill again has just been so lovely after our journey came to such an unexpected end. It’s just been beautiful partner!
"Then being able to perform my return number each day in arena’s has just been so special and meaningful to me. Reactions which will stay with me forever. @aljazskorjanec thank you for making me feel so special on that floor every night. I’m going to miss this so much."
Amy's Strictly co-stars also commented on the post. Carlos Gu said: "Love you & so proud of you! X" while Lauren commented: "Beautiful memories" followed by two love heart emojis. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter.
