Strictly's Amy Dowden reveals sweet message of support from Kate Middleton – before sharing own cancer diagnosis
Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has opened up about the touching message of support she received from Princess Kate during her chemotherapy treatment.
The 33-year-old professional dancer revealed that she discovered a lump in her breast while on her honeymoon in the Maldives with her husband and fellow dancer, Ben Jones.
After being diagnosed with stage three breast cancer, Amy underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy treatments.
During an appearance on Loose Women, Amy disclosed that Princess Kate reached out to her after publicly sharing her own cancer diagnosis.
Appearing on Loose Women, Amy shared: "I was lucky enough to meet [Kate] during my chemo treatment, and she gave me so much time. She was so kind. Actually, her words were, ''Let us know if there's anything we can do.''
"Just knowing that she's finding out that she has to have chemo and knowing what you have to go for. Emotionally, my family, whilst I was going for treatment, I don't think my parents slept. I can remember getting the news, and my sister saying: 'Oh, Dad will sleep tonight now.'
“I could see in their eyes, the pain in their eyes. I can't tell you how many times my parents would say they would do anything to take it away from me or them to have it instead of me."
Having experienced her mother's battle with cancer twice, Amy empathised with Kate's situation, highlighting the challenges of facing cancer in the public eye while also caring for a young family.
She added: "My mum's had cancer twice and it's just the thought. [Kate] has to go through it in the public eye and she's got three young children. I don't want anyone to go through it, it's still very raw to me."
Kate shared she had been diagnosed with cancer last month following abdominal surgery in January.
In her video to the nation, Kate revealed that her cancer diagnosis came as a "huge shock". She shared: "It has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok. As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.”
Following Kate's message, Amy took to social media to offer her support. Amy wrote: "The news has personally hit me hard, thinking so much about our Princess! Cancer doesn’t discriminate. There’s no textbook, right or wrong way to deal with a diagnosis and treatment. It’s personal and I really hope all can #bekind and support our Princess.
“I was lucky enough to meet The Princess of Wales during my treatment who was so kind, supportive and generous of time. Sending all my well wishes with treatment ahead and as always to all those affected by cancer."
