Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has said she feels “robbed” as she reflects on 2023 ahead of the new year.
The professional dancer was unable to take part in this year's Strictly after being diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in May.
Taking to her Instagram Stories, Dowden, who finished chemotherapy in November, opened up about the past year and admitted it didn't go how she planned.
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"Last day of 2023! I'm sure I'm not the only one but actually finding it hard looking at others post of the past year. I'm sure I'm not alone and that's why I wanted to put something," she wrote.
"I feel I was robed [sic] of the year I had planned and reflecting for me makes me upset and angry but later I'm going to look through my camera roll and remember all the good times, the amazing opportunities I had, family time but also taking time to realise I learnt the most this year," she continued.
"Experienced rock bottom, felt I lost my identity and dancing BUT become a stronger, braver person who I'm taking forward with me to 2024. For those struggling to reflect today remember it's ok. I feel much better after a little cry this morning and blessed to be celebrating with friends round tonight the GOOD BYE to 2023!"
She finished the post by reminding fans to check their breasts. "Sending love and hugs to those that need it! Ps as it's the last day of 2023 why not #checkyourchests."
Related: Strictly's Dianne Buswell shares baby plans with Joe Sugg
Back in November, Dowden opened up about completing chemotherapy treatment, admitting that she felt like she was "in limbo".
"I’m off to the unit again today for my monthly injection," she shared on Instagram. "But it does feel strange as when you’re in chemo cycles there’s such a routine and atm you feel a little in limbo! But still so very proud of this moment!"
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Interested in talking about Strictly Come Dancing? Visit our dedicated sub-forum
If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Macmillan Cancer Support, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.
Further information about breast cancer is available via organisations including the NHS, CoppaFeel!, Macmillan, Cancer Research and Breast Cancer Now. Readers in the US may wish to visit the CDC or the National Cancer Institute.
Reporter, Digital Spy
Harriet is a freelance news writer specialising in TV and movies at Digital Spy.
A horror enthusiast, she joined Digital Spy after working on her own horror website, reviewing films and focusing largely on feminism in the genre.
In her spare time, Harriet paints and produces mixed-media art. She graduated from the University of Kingston with a BA in fine art, where she specialised in painting. She also has an MA in journalism from Birkbeck University.
