Amy Dowden has shared a new update with her fanbase just hours after she revealed a broken foot had ruled out a possible return to the Strictly dancefloor this year.
The 33-year-old, who's been battling cancer since May, had hoped to make a return to the ballroom after being forced to pull out of this series due to her diagnosis but those hopes were scuppered by her injury.
But despite the latest health setback, Dowden has decided to still make her way to Blackpool to show her support for her Strictly co-stars ahead of the iconic round of the competition this weekend.
Dowden admitted she "wasn't meant" to be heading to Blackpool so soon after injuring her foot but the dancer has decided to go ahead anyway.
Taking to Instagram late on Thursday night, Dowden said to her fans: "I want to say a massive thank you for all the lovely messages - from my new best friend!"
Dowden shot the camera to her protective boot before she continued: "It's sore but it's okay.
Amy Dowden broke her foot earlier this week
INSTAGRAM/AMY DOWDEN
"The really frustrating thing is that because I had my port - you can probably see the bandaging - out yesterday, I can't use my arm for two weeks, it's advised at least.
"I can't lift above 90 (degrees) so shouldn't really be using crutches so getting around is, I'm not gonna lie, it's really tough.
"But I'm really lucky I've got all my friends and family and I've come up to Blackpool to watch (preparations) tonight."
Explaining her decision, she delved further: "I wasn't meant to be coming but my neutrophils are okay and I just needed cheering up and have been in the wonderful ballroom this evening.
"But (Blackpool) is a very... it's got a very special place in my heart, then (I get to) see the Strictly guys.
"So yeah, pop and see the Strictly guys tomorrow and see some more dancing, it definitely cheered me up."
Dowden signed off: "I haven't smiled since Tuesday but now I'm smiling again. Watch some wonderful dancing tonight and I'll continue to do so over the weekend... it's been a rubbish week but feeling better now."
Dowden will be able to see the remaining seven celebs battle it out following Krishnan Guru-Murthy's exit last week.
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Amy Dowden has headed to Blackpool
INSTAGRAM/AMY DOWDEN
The Strictly star's resilience and determination continue to shine through after making her way to the Tower less than a week after breaking her foot.
The injury occurred days after Dowden rang the bell in her chemo ward following her final round of treatment.
Dowden's battle with illness has been fraught with numerous other obstacles as well - from potentially "irreversible" side effects to a terrifying sepsis ordeal.
Despite it all, Dowden still hopes to make a return to dancing for the 2024 series of Strictly.
