Strictly's Amy Dowden declares 'I hate cancer' as she shares heartbreaking news

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Amy Dowden has recently shared a poignant message on Instagram voicing her disdain for the disease she's been battling after receiving some devastating news. Courageously fighting breast cancer since 2023, Amy has been open and frank about her arduous journey.

Last year, Amy celebrated a significant milestone when she announced she was free of disease having gone through a mastectomy, chemotherapy and fertility preservation. However, in a heart-wrenching development, a dear friend she made during treatment, who had provided companionship and support, has died of the same illness, reports Leicestershire Live.

In a moving tribute on Instagram, Amy recounted how life could be exceptionally harsh: "Life is cruel and I truly hate cancer! A beautiful soul, Hannah, I met during treatment. Our appointments always aligned and we'd have a good natter and put the world to rights."

The 34-year-old continued: "Spoke about Hannah actually on Loose Women which she immediately messaged me to say thank you and loved. Hannah like me had breast cancer. We spoke so much about our lives after cancer and I remember when I saw her during my trek (had to come back for injection) she told me she wanted to join me on one next year to give back.

"I was six months ahead of her so she would always be asking me questions and she was just the most genuine, dedicated mother and soul. I've just received a message from Hannah's friend to tell me Hannah passed last Tuesday."

Hannah left behind twin girls after succumbing to cancer, a fate their father also met. "This has knocked me but also knowing she's left two beautiful twin girls behind who already have lost their dad to this awful disease. You will live on through them Hannah."

To honour Hannah's memory, a GoFundMe page has been set up, with Amy revealing her personal turmoil: "The news has hit me quite hard. I'm gutted and angry. RIP beautiful Hannah. What a woman!"

In the midst of dealing with the loss, Amy returned to hospital for further preventative treatment, sharing an update: "And we are back for the first one of 2025 at the Sheldon Oncology Unit."

Her candid reflection revealed her mixed feelings about the treatments: "Don't enjoy these... but if they keep that cancer away it's worth it! Plus always lovely to catch up with the unit."