Strictly’s Shirley Ballas bravely recalls ‘terrifying’ cancer scare
Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas has opened up about her recent cancer scare that has left her feeling very ‘emotional’ and 'terrified'.
During an interview with The Sun, Shirley revealed that she’s been fearing for her future after having three biopsies for a lump found in her breast.
Shirley admitted to the publication: “I’m worried I’ve worked myself to death. It’s been terrifying, to have the needle go in your body to numb it before the biopsy. I feel very emotional. I’m not the same at work at the moment, so I’m teaching, but it’s constantly on my mind.”
Luckily Shirley has had a lot of support from her co-stars, friends and family – but in particular her boyfriend Danny Taylor who Shirley met while performing in panto five years ago
On his support, Shirley said: “I couldn’t wish for a sweeter person. He knows me and knows I like to stay busy. We talk every day, first thing in the morning and last thing at night.”
Shirley shared the fact she was waiting on mammogram results on Instagram and encouraged her fans to 'self breast check regularly'.
In 2019, Shirley had her breast implants removed over cancer fears. The star had to duck out of the Pride of Britain Awards early to make sure she was ready for her early morning operation.
During a mammogram five years ago, the nurse informed Shirley that not all scans can see behind the implants. With a history of cancer in the family, Shirley went ahead with the removal.
Sadly, Shirley’s gran, grandad and aunt have all had the disease at some point in their lives. Shirley’s mum, Audrey, was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2018, but is currently in remission.
Shirley confessed one of her biggest fears is passing away before her 87 year old mother – who she also praises as one of the strongest people she knows.
Shirley said: “Her attitude to problems is, ‘Hang it at the door, darling, and pick it up on the way out. You don’t take it into work with you’.”
Someone else who has offered their support to Shirley is Strictly dancer Amy Dowden, who bravely went through treatment for breast cancer last year.
Amy discovered a lump in her breast just before jetting off on her honeymoon and was diagnosed with cancer in May 2023.
Speaking to OK!, Amy recently said: “I’m getting stronger day by day. I’m building up to get back on the dance floor.”
