Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas reveals breast cancer scare
Shirley Ballas has shared details of a recent cancer scare following her routine mammogram.
The Strictly Come Dancing head judge revealed on Thursday that she is awaiting biopsy results after undergoing the procedure.
The 63-year-old credited show pro Amy Dowden for prompting her to prioritise her check-up, as she stressed the importance of not skipping mammograms and seeking medical attention if a lump is found.
Dowden, 33, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer last May after finding a lump before going on her honeymoon with husband Ben Jones.
Sharing a selfie which showed the bandage after the biopsy, Ballas wrote: “Urging all women do not miss your mammogram.
“I went for mine, ended up going for a second one and a biopsy. Local anesthetic biopsy done. Now waiting for results.
“Amy Dowden you ran through my mind. The importance of not putting it off. Go and get tested. Plus self breast check regularly.”
Dowden then reshared Ballas’ post to her own Instagram Story and penned: “Always here for you! Important message here all from @shirleyballas.”
Ballas’ health scare comes after Dowden said she is “working hard” to get her body ready for a return to Strictly Come Dancing following her battle with breast cancer.
She recently said on BBC Breakfast: “I can’t believe it’s a year since I found the lump. But I’m just so grateful in the year for the treatment I’ve had, the NHS, and all the charities, everybody that’s helped me to be still here today.”
She added: “I was actually at the oncology unit yesterday, having my monthly injection, which I will need for five years.
“But I’m just so grateful to get another shot at life. but I never thought in a million years at 32, that I’d be diagnosed with breast cancer.
“I was living my life to the full on Strictly Come Dancing, I’d just got married, but cancer doesn’t discriminate.”
Asked what has helped her over the past year, she said: “I’ve got amazing friends and family. The oncology unit, the nurses, the breast nurses, and also the public support has been incredible.
“And I think the goal and the dream to be back on the dance floor as well, because I’ve missed it so, so much.
She added: “I’m working really really hard and getting my body fully back in rehab and physio, I’ve got a brilliant team. So fingers crossed I’ll be back on your screens dancing later this.
“If Strictly will have me back, I’ll be back.”
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Breast Cancer Support.
