Amy Dowden made a highly anticipated return to *Strictly Come Dancing* in 2024, partnering with JLS singer JB Gill for an exciting and promising run on the show.
However, her journey was tragically cut short when she sustained an insufficiency stress fracture in her shin, forcing her to withdraw from the competition earlier than expected.
In a candid interview with *The Mirror*, Amy opened up about how the injury affected her, leaving her feeling “robbed of the year” and unable to perform at her usual high standards.
The 34-year-old dancer admitted that, during this period, she didn’t feel like herself, saying she felt “not the slightest bit like Amy.”
Despite the setback, Amy is now back to full strength and ready to take on new challenges.
Reflecting on her recovery, she shared her excitement ahead of the *Strictly Live Tour*, revealing that her energy levels have drastically improved. “I feel like Amy again,” she told the publication.
“2025, my energy levels are different and I’m super excited to be back on tour and to be able to dance with JB again. Our journey was cut so unexpectedly short, but now we’re ready to make up for it.” She is especially looking forward to being part of a trio with both JB and fellow dancer Lauren Oakley during the upcoming tour, calling it a thrilling way to kick off the new year.
Amy’s determination and resilience are particularly inspiring given the challenges she faced in the past year. Her return to *Strictly* came just a year after her breast cancer diagnosis, which shook both her and her fans. The Welsh-born dancer discovered a lump in her breast just before heading on her honeymoon with her husband, Ben Jones. The news was a devastating blow, but Amy fought through it with strength and grace. She underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy, sharing her journey with her followers to raise awareness and encourage others. In February 2024, she received the life-changing news that she had “no evidence of disease,” a milestone that Amy called “my biggest accomplishment yet” in an emotional Instagram post. However, she reminded her fans that she would still need monthly injections for the next five years and regular check-ups to ensure her health remains on track.
Throughout her cancer treatment, Amy was supported by a close-knit circle of family, friends, and fans. In her social media posts, she expressed deep gratitude for their unconditional support, especially during the toughest moments of her recovery. “To my family and friends who supported me unconditionally and to you guys! Thank you!” she wrote. Her journey not only highlighted her inner strength but also emphasized the importance of community during times of adversity.
After Amy’s departure from *Strictly*, her partner JB Gill continued the competition with a new partner, Lauren Oakley, and the pair will also perform together on the upcoming tour. JB praised both Amy and Lauren, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to work with two incredibly talented dancers. “It’s amazing. The reality of it is that I get to dance with two incredible dancers. Two incredible women,” he said. His admiration for Amy was clear as he recalled their time together on the show.
Amy’s determination to return to dancing, despite the physical challenges she faced with her injury and cancer treatment, is a testament to her resilience and passion for her craft. Her journey serves as an inspiration not only to her fans but also to anyone who faces personal challenges. As Amy prepares for the *Strictly Live Tour*, she continues to show the world that, no matter what life throws her way, she will always rise above and return stronger than ever.
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