'Cancer has changed my life forever - but I finally feel like myself again'

Strictly professional Amy Dowden on her cancer journey, getting her energy back and using her pain to help others

- 

Amy Dowden's life changed forever in May 2023 when, aged just 32, she was diagnosed with breast cancer - a discovery made only a day before flying to the Maldives for her honeymoon with husband Benjamin Jones.

The Strictly Come Dancing professional was left “traumatised and devastated” but chose to confront her fear head-on, documenting her treatment to raise awareness and encourage others to check themselves regularly. Her honesty and strength inspired millions, and she has since become one of the UK’s most recognisable advocates for early cancer detection.

After celebrating the all-clear in February 2024, Amy’s mission hasn’t slowed down. Determined to save more lives, she has now joined forces with fellow survivor Gemma Ainger to launch My Breast Friend - a brilliant, totally free app designed to make self-checks simple, stigma-free and routine.

The app sends gentle monthly reminders and allows users to privately log any changes. “Checking your boobs, chest or pecs shouldn’t feel scary or clinical,” its creators say, aiming to normalise conversations around breast health.

Amy, who knows firsthand how critical early detection can be, says she instantly wanted to get involved. “From my own diagnosis, I know the importance of early detection,” she explains. “It can quite simply save lives.”

With one in seven women in the UK expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives, and nearly half admitting they don’t check regularly, My Breast Friend hopes to turn self-exams into an effortless habit - as normal as brushing your teethin the morning.