Amy Dowden is keeping her followers up to date on the latest developments in her cancer treatment, detailing how she is preparing for her second day of chemotherapy with special attire.
In May of this year, the Strictly Come Dancing actress revealed that she had been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer, before announcing that she will not be competing in the show this year.
The 33-year-old also said that she had a single mastectomy when doctors discovered further malignancies.
Amy, who previously posted photos from the hospital during her first round of chemotherapy, is now ready for day two of the treatment and has disclosed that she will be wearing apparel designed exclusively for cancer patients.
The professional dancer said in a video published on her Instagram Story that she had been provided a trackie and jumper combination, with the top built with zips so that individuals with ports, like herself, may easily unzip for access.
According to the charity Macmillan, a port is a “small reservoir” that may be used to administer a patient chemotherapy or medication into a vein or to obtain blood samples through a thin tube and is implanted on the upper chest or the arm.
In the film that she released on social media, Amy showed her fans what the light pink sweater looked like, while stating in the background: ‘Chemo day number two, and I had to share this. This was provided to me, and it’s quite comfortable, but it will benefit others, so I’d want to share it.
‘I’ve got my trousers on already. Look, breast cancer ribbon here, but for those with ports like myself, you can just unzip and they can access your port because you get really cold with the cold cap. Or if you’ve got a port on your chest, there’s a zip.
‘But look how beautiful it is and it’s got the breast cancer ribbon. So thank you so, so much! Gonna feel pretty in pink at least.’
The pink breast cancer ribbon is featured on the pinafore and matching pants by Porto&Bello, an accessible apparel business.
The hoodie is available to purchase for £75, while the joggers are being sold for £45.
Earlier this month, Amy celebrated her 33rd birthday, marking the occasion by sharing a post in honour of her twin sister, Becky.
‘Happy birthday to my beautiful, kind, talented twin! @becky_dowden 💖💖💖💖Hope your day is as lovely as you and for sure next year we are making up for it! Love you bex and thank you for everything you always do for me,’ she wrote in the caption.
‘I wasn’t looking forward to this birthday. At the moment any milestone or event is a bigger reminder and hurts. I’m far from what I should and normally doing, in the rehearsal room with my Strictly family. But all your wishes this morning have certainly cheered me up.’
Amy concluded: ‘This year my birthday wish is for all to take the time to check themselves! @coppafeelpeople have so many useful resources 🙏💖! Doesn’t take long! That’s my birthday wish! Thank you so much again for all the love and support it really does help and mean so much to me. Welsh love Amy x 💖💖💖💖 #checkyourlemons.’
How should you check your breasts for lumps or irregularities?
Discussing the importance of being breast aware, Addie Mitchell, clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Now, wants women to know there is no right or wrong way to check your breasts.
‘It’s about looking and feeling regularly so any changes can be spotted quickly,’ she said. ‘The sooner breast cancer is diagnosed, the more effective treatment may be.
‘Whatever your age, being aware of all the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is crucial – it’s not just a lump to look out for. Other changes could be a nipple becoming inverted or a change in texture of the skin.
‘While most symptoms won’t mean breast cancer, if you notice anything unusual for you get it checked out by your GP.
‘Anyone with questions can call Breast Cancer Now’s nurses free on 0808 800 6000 or visit breastcancernow.org.uk.’
Macmillan cancer support
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer, Macmillan can offer support and information.
You can contact their helpline on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week from 8am to 8pm), use their webchat service, or visit their site for more information.
