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Due to injury, Amy Dowden had to leave this year’s Strictly Come Dancing series.

The 34-year-old Welsh dancer revealed she broke a bone in her foot, which made it impossible for her to continue watching the current season. Her partner, JB Gill, is now set to dance with Lauren Oakley for the rest of the series.

Amy had previously addressed her recent health issues in a candid manner with her fans. And in a devastating statement, she told Mirror she had “finally felt like me again” before her exit.

The Strictly Come Dancing professional, 34, first graced our screens in 2017 when she made her debut on the BBC dancefloor. The Welsh star was forced to leave the show last year after being horribly misdiagnosed with breast cancer in May. Following her gruelling treatment, Amy came back this season.

However, last week TV chiefs had to make an urgent 999 call after she fell ill backstage. Amy’s representative stated that because of her health, an ambulance was called as a precaution. She is feeling much better and thanks the Strictly family for their support. We request Amy’s privacy in matters of health is kindly respected”.

Amy has spoken about her struggles and cancer journey to raise awareness, but it has been a long road back. Here, the Mirror takes a look at everything she’s been through…

In 2019, Amy revealed she was suffering from Crohn’s disease. She went on to front the BBC programme Strictly Amy: Crohn’s And Me. She shared her experiences with the condition with other people who have Crohn’s and shared their stories with them in it. Crohn’s, according to the NHS, is a lifelong condition in which parts of the digestive system become inflamed.

Following a Crohn’s flare-up while on the Strictly Live tour in January 2022, the professional was taken to a Manchester hospital. Two years later, she was awarded an MBE for her services to Crohn’s disease “on behalf” of all those who live with it. Additionally, Amy serves as the charity’s spokesperson and ambassador, Colitis UK.

As well as Crohn’s, Amy has publicly shared her battle with breast cancer. In May last year, Amy revealed the shocking news on her Instagram. She wrote: “Hey all, I’ve got some news which isn’t easy to share. Despite having breast cancer recently, I’m determined to hit the dance floor again soon.

She later told HELLO! Magazine: “I was in the shower and I felt this hard lump in my right breast. I was in shock, I checked again”. Amy went to see her GP and was given an emergency referral after realizing the lump had grown while she was on her honeymoon in the Maldives with her husband, co-star Benjamin Jones.

She was then unapologetically diagnosed with aggressive stage three breast cancer. “You just don’t ever think it’s going to happen to you. I hadn’t thought it was possible to get breast cancer at my age”, she continued, explaining that her mum had breast cancer in her fifties.

Three tumors and additional cancer specks were removed from Amy during a mastectomy that month. Additionally, her right breast was removed with some lymph nodes. Sadly, just days afterwards, doctors found a second type of breast cancer in the tissue they removed. They also discovered more tumours, including one close to her chest, and specks in her other breast.

Amy was advised to undergo chemotherapy after learning about it. However, her first reaction was to refuse it. “I thought that’s Strictly with a partner wiped out, that’s my hair gone, that’s my life gone. I was like, I don’t want to do that”, she told the Mirror.

Amy was adamant she didn’t want to dance until her former dance teacher intervened, even though her surgeon kept telling her that she could “dance forever and ever afterwards.” At the time, Amy and Ben were hoping they would still have children while IVF was being performed to create and freeze embryos.

“She gave me tough love and said, ‘ What’s the point of these embryos if you’re not going to have chemo? Because you won’t be around to have these babies anyway'”, Amy said. She finally decided to go through with chemotherapy.

But sadly, her first and second cycles didn’t go to plan, resulting in emergency hospital stays and life-threatening complications. First came sepsis, then blood clots. Amy recalled the first cycle when they said my blood pressure was so low that my vital organs would have started failing. A week later, when we met the paramedics, they said I might not have woken up the following morning if I had gone to bed that night.

Amy continued on her second chemo cycle after being assured by her oncologist that she had been unlucky, only to face terrifying circumstances once more. “I got blood clots, I ended up back in hospital”, she explained, adding that it was “frightening”.

After chemo, Amy recovered, and her hair started to fall out at home. She said, “I found losing my hair really painful and it didn’t matter how much I had planned because I was bald in top. I couldn’t even brush my own hair in the end. I couldn’t even look in the mirror.”

She shaved her head in September 2023, which she recorded and uploaded to Instagram. “We all did it together, my friends and family got together, we tried to make it as fun as possible”, Amy explained. They gave me inspiration, and I want to use my platform to inspire others to find the strength and courage they need.

After ringing the chemotherapy bell, Amy declared to fans that she was “proud of herself” and that her treatment was over. She shared a heartfelt post about the significant occasion with a video of her ringing the bell while teasing up to several hospital staff members.

She said: “I rang the bell and I’m so thankful I got to! My most difficult journey to date! Looking back over the past few months, I wonder how my body handled this both physically and mentally. From the words I’m so sorry Amy, it’s cancer and what’s your fertility plans. To having a mastectomy, two weeks later hormone daily injections for egg retrieval, a little Crohns flare up and then on to chemo plus shutting down my ovaries on the same day which sadly lead to sepsis, blood clots, losing my hair, my eyebrows, lashes (I have a few hanging in there) and three toe nails”.

Amy continued: “But also it’s taken away my love of life these past few months and of course my DANCING! It’s been tough. But hopefully this has given me more opportunities to live, which I’m forever grateful for and will never take for granted again. I’ll never be the same as Amy, but I do know that I’m far more powerful than I ever was and that I’ve made some incredible friends along the way.

The Strictly pro described the news from doctors as “words I dreamed of” and her “biggest accomplishment yet” when she revealed her health check showed “no evidence of disease” in February of this year.

On October 27, 2024, a version of this article was first published.

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Following the announcement that Amy Dowden will dance with JB Gill forever, Pro Lauren Oakley has reached out with a message to Amy Dowden.

Amy, 34, has been confirmed that she will not be able to compete in the most recent BBC show season due to an injury. Strictly released the news, and Amy later revealed her departure on her Instagram account.

Reacting to her post, Lauren, 33 – who temporarily danced with JB, 37, on Saturday night’s show – wrote to Amy: “This too shall pass. We’re still a team. Love you. You did the work, and I’m hoping to make you proud as we continue our partnership.

On Monday, host Fleur East shared a statement from a Strictly representative as well as her own message on companion program It Takes Two. Unfortunately, Amy Dowden MBE will not participate in the rest of the competition this year, according to a Strictly spokesperson. Lauren Oakley, a fellow professional dancer, will serve as JB’s dance partner while Amy concentrates on her recovery from a foot injury. Everyone involved in Strictly has a top priority in terms of their health and well-being. Amy is euphoric and the entire Strictly family wishes her well.

Amy addressed her departure on Instagram in a statement on her own statement. She returned to Strictly this year after undergoing cancer treatment. She wrote: “My heart is breaking right now. I finally started to feel like myself after a while. When I woke up, I no longer had to think about cancer first. It was choreography, music choices, which dances in which order, what we needed to work on. I felt free again. Since hearing you said you had cancer, my goal was to return to the dance floor. It’s been such a challenge to get back, one I devoted 2024 too.

Which we arrived at with my incredible team. Something I wanted to do for my loved ones and myself. No one in my strictly family felt like dancing once more in the ballroom. Then I was partnered with the talented, kind, gentle soul JB. Our training room was always upbeat, hardworking, and full of enthusiastic laughter as we each celebrated our accomplishments and developed a blossoming friendship. Thank you for being your ideal partner. We won the first place spot on the leader board thanks to our tireless efforts in week one. We appreciate your enthusiasm for learning the fundamentals of Latin and ballroom. That rumba will always be one of my favorites, in my opinion. I’m so sad, so upset and asking why me, why now that our journey has been cut short. “

Amy continued, “I know that this too shall pass, and I’ll soon be better and back dancing, but my heart is breaking right now that I have to pull out of the competition due to a foot injury.” Something about my life has required me to adapt to. JB, I’m certain we’ll dance once more at some point. To all the fans, to my loved ones, my Strictly family thank you. You and Lauren will continue to rock that dance floor. I’ll forever be your biggest cheerleader. “

Amy allegedly “collapsed” backstage shortly after dancing with JB on October 26 according to a report earlier this month. She was identified as having been taken to Barnet Hospital from Elstree Studios as a “precaution” after feeling unwell. She then skipped that weekend’s results show, but she last week revealed that she was “feeling so much better.” She then took a break from Strictly and sat out last weekend’s show, with Lauren, who does not have a celebrity dance partner this year, standing in for her.

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It has been a year since Lorraine Stanley’s exit scene aired on EastEnders.

However, it seems that the actress, 48, has found success after living away from Albert Square after shedding an incredible amount of weight. Lorraine played down-trodden Karen Taylor and was known for being opinionated. But now, after taking to Instagram, the star showcased a slim frame in a flattering black dress.

The actress and her nephew were all dressed up for a glittery mental health charity event. Fans who rushed to the comment section of her post, as one user observed, “Look at you” were not without reason. Another fan wrote: “Where did you steal that body from”.

A third added: “You look amazing Lorraine, how did you get so slim”. After leaving the BBC soap, Lorraine revealed that she had made healthier lifestyle choices to reduce her weight and improve her health. Back in March, she posted before and after pictures of herself and told her followers: “Five stone down, feeling good, clean living, healthy choices, new me, healthy mummy”.

She claimed she had no intention of returning to the soap, just like Patsy Palmer and Letitia Dean did after her exit. Speaking to The Sun, she said: “Once you’ve done a soap, you’ve done a soap. At the moment I wouldn’t go back, I’m happy doing what I’m doing. They’ve left the door open, so never say never. It was nice to see everyone and be a part of the family once more after my special appearance.

Her departure came to an end thanks to her involvement in the well-known EastEnders Six storyline, which saw her son Keanu killed by Linda, who Kellie Bright had previously played. However, she later admitted to having found it difficult to get roles after leaving.

She continued: “I’m a busy mum at the moment. I don’t plan on doing anymore soaps, once you’ve done a soap, you’ve done a soap. At the moment I’m auditioning, I’m just doing self-tapes, which is soul-destroying. It’s horrible, I’m so bad at it”.

However, she has now landed a role in pantomime. She added: “I’m doing Panto in my hometown of Portsmouth, I’m playing Queen Rat, I’ve never done it before and I’m so excited. My daughter is the only one who can watch it, and I swear that’s the only time she’s ever watched it. However, my daughter, Nancy, can watch it and hopefully be proud of her. And she told fans: “I can’t wait for this!!!! It’s going to be epic to play Panto in my hometown with my old friend Jack Edwards! Get your tickets early, and I’ll see you at the Kings Theatre after Ratty’s performance.

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Following the announcement that Amy Dowden won’t compete in the remaining seasons of the series, former Strictly Come Dancing finalist Fleur East has since expressed her gratitude to Amy Dowden.

Amy, 34, didn’t take to the dancefloor on Saturday, following reports that she ‘ collapsed ‘ backstage the weekend prior. She has since been confirmed that Lauren Oakley will no longer be JB Gill’s dance partner in the current BBC series.

Amy’s departure was announced on companion show It Takes Two on Monday, with host Fleur, 37 – who was a finalist in 2022 – sharing a statement from a Strictly spokesperson. Fleur wrote a message to professional dancer Amy after reading the statement. Looking at the camera, she said to her colleague: “Sending you all our love, Amy. Get better soon”.

Unfortunately, Amy Dowden MBE will not participate in the rest of the competition this year, according to a Strictly spokesperson. Lauren Oakley, a fellow professional dancer, will serve as JB’s dance partner while Amy concentrates on her recovery from a foot injury. Everyone involved in Strictly has a top priority in terms of their health and well-being. Amy is euphoric and the entire Strictly family wishes her well.

Amy addressed her departure in a statement released this week, which she made after returning to Strictly this year after receiving cancer treatment. She wrote: “My heart is breaking right now. I finally started to feel like myself after a while. When I woke up, I no longer had to think about cancer first. It was choreography, music choices, which dances in which order, what we needed to work on. I felt free again. Since hearing you said you had cancer, my goal was to return to the dance floor. It’s been such a challenge to get back, one I devoted 2024 too.

Which we arrived at with my incredible team. Something I wanted to do for my loved ones and myself. No one in my strictly family felt like dancing once more in the ballroom. Then I was partnered with the talented, kind, gentle soul JB. Our training room was always upbeat, hardworking, and full of enthusiastic laughter as we each celebrated our accomplishments and developed a blossoming friendship. Thank you for being your ideal partner. We won the first place spot on the leader board thanks to our tireless efforts in week one. We appreciate your enthusiasm for learning the fundamentals of Latin and ballroom. That rumba will always be one of my favorites, in my opinion. I’m so sad, so upset and asking why me, why now that our journey has been cut short.

“I know that this too shall pass, and I’ll soon be better and back dancing because I have to pull myself out of the competition right now.” Something about my life has required me to adapt to. JB, I’m certain we’ll dance once more at some point. To all the fans, to my loved ones, my Strictly family thank you. You and Lauren will continue to rock that dance floor. I’ll forever be your biggest cheerleader”.

Amy allegedly “collapsed” backstage shortly after dancing with JB on October 26 according to a report earlier this month. After she began to “feel unwell,” it was established that she had been taken to Barnet Hospital from Elstree Studios as a “precaution.” After that weekend’s results show, she was later excused, but she revealed last week that she was “feeling so much better.” She then took a break from Strictly and sat out last weekend’s show, with Lauren, who does not have a celebrity dance partner this year, standing in for her.

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Amy Dowden, a professional dancer, had to sadly leave her Strictly role after last week’s backstage collapse.

Now, JB Gill will be partnered by Lauren Oakley for the remainder of the competition. However, before the news broke on It Takes Two, Amy, 34, opened up on her menopausal symptoms. She finished her breast cancer treatment earlier this year, and she now has the benefit.

In the new clip, Amy explained her type of cancer was hormone fed and said she had to go into a medically-induced menopause. She claimed that this was “one of the biggest shocks” of her treatment and that she has since experienced symptoms like hot flushes and low energy.

She labelled it a “huge shock”. “I was in a bit of denial, and I had no idea about the menopause”, she said. “It’s something I wasn’t worried about, I hadn’t even thought about, and I thought I had years ahead of me before I went into menopause. It’s been tough, and the signs and symptoms haven’t been easy”.

She explained that, due to her active job, she had the most trouble falling asleep due to hot flushes and night sweats. She claimed that having conversations with others had helped her through the difficult situation. “My advice would be to persevere”, she went on. “Obviously, you kind of don’t have any choice, but at the same time, your body does adjust, or even not only that, you adjust.

” I think you start to get used to it and not to be scared, to talk to others, not to feel alone. I believe it is really helpful to talk to other people, get advice on what works for them, and, of course, always seek medical advice.

Menopause awareness month was the focus of Boots and Macmillan Cancer’s collaboration. She made it known to her followers that she didn’t want people to believe they were the only ones dealing with the issues.

Shortly before it was revealed that she had a broken foot and was resuming competing in this year’s Strictly, the upload was made. She has been told to rest indefinitely by doctors to allow the injury to heal. Speaking of the decision, she said:” My heart is breaking right now. I finally started to feel like myself after a while.

When I woke up, I no longer had to think about cancer first. It was choreography, music choices, which dances in which order, what we needed to work on. I felt free again. Since hearing you said you had cancer, my goal was to return to the dance floor. It’s been such a challenge to get back, one I devoted 2024 too.

Which we arrived at with my incredible team. Something I wanted to do for my loved ones and myself. No one in my strictly family felt like dancing once more in the ballroom. Then I was partnered with the talented, kind, gentle soul JB. Our training room was always upbeat, hardworking, and full of enthusiastic laughter as we each celebrated our accomplishments and developed a blossoming friendship.

“JB, I appreciate you being my ideal partner back.” We won the first place spot on the leader board thanks to our tireless efforts in week one. We appreciate your enthusiasm for learning the fundamentals of Latin and ballroom. That rumba will always be one of my favorites, in my opinion. I’m so sad, so upset and asking why me, why now that our journey has been cut short”.

She thanked all of her fans and family for their continued support and said she will be back in the spotlight.

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Parka jackets are once again back in fashion, as Liam and Noel Gallagher’s reunion sparks a renewed love for 90s grunge looks – and especially, the iconic parka Liam Gallagher could often be seen sporting. The staple coat has been snatched off shelves by Oasis fans eager to get the Gallagher look before the concert dates because 90s-style parks have been trending in recent months since the reunion tour’s announcement.

The good news is that we’ve found some stunning ones to complete your Oasis ensemble. Customers can’t stop raveling about these new, waterproof khaki-colored jackets that Seasalt Cornwall has just released, making them the perfect addition to all of your parka dreams.

READ MORE: “My friends couldn’t believe where it’s from because I wore this stunning velvet jumpsuit to a wedding.”

READ MORE: Fashion fans are buying ‘ comfortable ‘ M&amp, S block heel ankle boots in both colours

The two parkas that have just been released, which are sure to meet the 90s-aesthetic perfect, are this Plant Hunter waterproof coat, or this nifty 3-in-1 Holdfast waterproof number, which both come in the iconic khaki green shade. While the former comes in a wide size range, from 8 to 28 in your choice of petite, regular or tall measurements, the latter is restricted to a regular length in sizes 8 through 20.

The Plant Hunter, which is currently up for grabs at £165, also comes in a wide range of colours – in case green isn’t your shade. This piece has a flattering, “gently” fitted shape, and it also has a waterproof material on the outside. This will keep your dog warm as they walk through the cold, windy winters. Additionally, this number has zip and snap fastenings to prevent the chill and a drawstring waist for a snug fit.

The Holdfast coat, which offers a little more versatility than your typical outerwear, ensures that you can be prepared for all occasions and weather through the colder months. Retailing for £190, this isn’t just a jacket – it’s two different pieces that can either be worn as one, or separately. The interior of the parka has a fleece Gillet that can be taken apart and worn alone as a statement piece, or the two can be combined to create the ideal warm and fashionable winter coat. The outer parka is water and windproof, which is ideal for the autumnal temperatures right now or for spring showers in the spring of next year.

This Plant Hunter parka is praised by consumers as being “perfect for dog walking.” When the hood didn’t keep falling over my head during the wet spell a few weeks ago, it kept me dry. Very happy”.

Another 5-star reviewer raves: “Super comfortable, well made and great quality. I use it for dog walks, running in the neighborhood, and other things. Perfect for wearing a warm jumper in winter and rainy weather. Very pleased with it. It fits my opinion of the size.

And a third shares: “This coat is fantastic! It looks great with a lot of outfits, but it also performs well in rainy, windy weather. I’ve worn it so much. Love it”.

While another customer states, “I love this Parka coat’s fit and design.” It has been alleged that it also looks good on me, and it does feel cozy.

But it isn’t just the Plant Hunter parka getting all the praise, Seasalt Cornwall’s 3-in-1 piece is sharing in the love as shoppers leave it their own glowing feedback. A fan writes, “At last, a winter coat with a fleece lining that goes right down the coat!” Great design that can be used year-round.

With another gushing: “Comfortable to wear, versatile and very warm. Looks amazing, and fits really well with good-length sleeves. Beautiful lining to make it warmer or cooler depending on the weather would be a must.

Don’t wait until Seasalt Cornwall has your 90s-inspired parkas in hand in advance of the Oasis reunion tour.

For those shopping alternatives, you can check out our coverage of Oasis-ready parkas here. These iconic numbers from TOG24 and this one from Boden, both of which are guaranteed to complete the 90s-grunge look in Gallagher brother fashion, make for excellent tour picks.