Shirley Ballas has opened up about her recent cancer scare after having her routine mammogram.
The 63-year-old Strictly head judge took to Instagram to tell her fans that she is awaiting biopsy results after the procedure.
The dancer stressed the importance of not skipping a mammogram or getting checked if you find a lump and credited Amy Dowden for reminding her of the importance of getting tested.
Sharing a selfie showing the bandage after the biopsy, he wrote: ‘Urging all women not to miss their mammogram.
‘I went for mine, ended up with a second one and a biopsy. Biopsy is performed under local anesthesia. Now waiting for results.’
Shirley Ballas has revealed her fear of breast cancer when she shared a health update on her Instagram on Wednesday.
The dancer stressed the importance of not missing her mammogram and credited Amy Dowden for reminding her of the importance of getting tested.
Shirley also mentioned Amy, who shared the news that she was cancer-free in February, after being diagnosed with grade III breast cancer in May 2023.
And he added: ‘Amy Dowden, you crossed my mind. The importance of not postponing it. Go get tested. Also, check your breasts regularly.’
In response to Shirley’s mention, Amy gushed: ‘Always here for you! Important message here all from @shirleyballas’.
Amy has vowed to return to Strictly almost a year after she was diagnosed with grade III breast cancer, the second highest grade.
The Welsh dancer underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy and will need monthly injections for the next five years.
She shared: ‘I’m working very, very hard and getting my body back with rehab and physical therapy. I’ve got a brilliant team, so let’s keep our fingers crossed we’ll be dancing on your screens again later this year.
Amy promised: “If Strictly takes me back, I’ll be back” and confirmed: “The goal and dream is to get back on the dance floor too.” Because I’ve missed him so much.
On the show, Amy spoke about life after cancer and urged people to volunteer for cancer charities.
In fact, yesterday I was in the oncology unit receiving my monthly injection, which I will need for five years. But I’m very grateful to have another chance at life.”
Sharing a selfie showing the bandage after the biopsy, she wrote: ‘Urging all women not to miss their mammogram’
In response to Shirley’s mention, Amy gushed: ‘Always here for you! Important message here all from @shirleyballas
Amy told BBC Breakfast on Tuesday that she will be returning to Strictly Come Dancing almost a year after she was diagnosed with grade III breast cancer, the second highest grade.
He added: “I have amazing friends and family, the oncology unit, the nurses, the breast nurses and also the support from the public has been incredible.”
Amy continued: ‘Unfortunately, one in two of us in our lifetime will be diagnosed with cancer. But charities such as Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, Young Lives vs Cancer and Breast Cancer UK. They wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for volunteers.
‘Volunteers are the backbone, the heart of all these charities. They help fund research, the reason I’m still alive today.
‘Not only those who are going through this, but also their families. As a volunteer, you also feel very proud. “It helps your mental health, it has many benefits.”