Overview
- In a new interview on Matt Willis's On The Mend podcast, the Strictly Come Dancing professional says she came close to retiring after treatment.
- Dowden was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023 and underwent chemotherapy and two mastectomies, forcing a break from the BBC show.
- She recalls returning to dance feeling she had lost her flexibility and speed until fellow pro Carlos Gu urged her to continue; he later won Strictly.
- Dowden says she still receives monthly oncology injections, which she describes as keeping her alive.
- She plans to tour this year with Gu, hopes to rejoin the Strictly lineup, and credits her 2021 partner Tom Fletcher for introducing her to CoppaFeel.