TV’s Amy Dowden has opened up about an unexpected consequence of suffering cancer – losing friends.
The Strictly Come Dancing pro, 34, underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy in 2023 following a breast cancer diagnosis. The Welsh performer has also suffered devastating setbacks with sepsis, a blood clot on her lung and a broken foot.
But amid her health battles, Amy has come to realise her true relationships have strengthened as she has encountered adversity.
Amy Dowden on health battle affecting relationships with friends
Speaking to the Mirror, Amy detailed how the love between her and husband Ben, who have recently celebrated their third wedding anniversary, is deeper than ever before.
It was the day before their honeymoon in April 2023 when Amy found a lump in her breast.
Despite that challenging start to their marriage, Amy appreciates how their bond has evolved.
She said: “We’re even closer than ever now, especially this past year getting our life back together, enjoying holidays and doing our house renovation. My husband said to me earlier this year: ‘I love my life and I’m really happy.’ It makes you realise how precious life and your loved ones are after a cancer diagnosis. We just enjoy every little bit of time we get together.”
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‘Life is precious’
Amy indicated she has learned to make adjustments in her life as part of her recovery. And part of that is apparently knowing how to say ‘no’ more regularly – and focus on her wellbeing.
She continued by saying how she would ‘work herself into the ground’, and not take time off. Amy reflected that what she learnt from having cancer is that “life is precious”.
‘Everyone deals with it differently’
Furthermore, Amy admitted to being surprised to a distance that has opened up between her and close pals during her illness. Hurt and confused, she said she found not hearing from those friends to be “very tough”.
Amy explained: “There were people sat at my wedding six months before and I still haven’t heard from them today. Everyone deals with it differently, but it’s still very tough. So much has changed for me.”
There were people sat at my wedding six months before and I still haven’t heard from them today.
However, she also noted cancer has introduced her to new people. Additionally, other existing relationships are now even more solid.
Amy went on: “I learned who my true friends and family were and I only surround myself with them, that’s the new normal for me.”
Read more: Amy Dowden’s heartbreak as she shares tragic cancer death: ‘The news has hit hard’
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