Celebrities

Strictly Star Amy Dowden Breaks Down as Brave Cancer Hero Passes Away Too Soon

Published on July 22, 2025

Amy Dowden has been left heartbroken following the passing of a fellow breast cancer campaigner, someone who, like her, had battled the disease with incredible courage.

The Strictly Come Dancing favorite, who went public with her own diagnosis of grade three breast cancer in May 2023, shared the sad news over the weekend. Amy, who has been open about her gruelling journey through chemotherapy and a mastectomy, was thankfully given the all-clear in February this year, revealing there was “no evidence of the disease” left in her body. But the reality of how cruel cancer can be hit home again after she found out that Sophie Busson had passed away.

Sophie, a fellow Welshwoman and breast cancer advocate, died after a long and courageous fight. She’d been through cancer twice and still dedicated herself to helping others through her charity work. Her loss has clearly shaken Amy deeply.

Taking to Instagram on Sunday 20 July, Amy shared her grief with her followers, reposting a tribute from Sophie’s family. Alongside it, she wrote: “Sending so much love and strength to your twin, your husband, boys, family and friends. Fly high, darling, thank you for all you did and will continue to do for the breast cancer and cancer community”, reported the Express.

Amy also shared another emotional post — a collection of images showing Sophie over the years. “Thinking of these gorgeous twins. The news has hit me hard as I can relate so much. Sending love to all, but especially Steph,” she added, directing her thoughts to Sophie’s twin sister.

Sophie’s family confirmed her passing with a moving Instagram post, sharing a black-and-white photo of her, with her birth and death years, 1986 to 2025, written across. Their words captured just how loved and admired she was.

“The time we hoped would never come, arrived last night with our beautiful Sophie passing away peacefully,” the post read. “She had us both by her side until the end and we take comfort in knowing how much she was loved. She was an absolute fighter until her final breath.”

They finished with a message that summed up the heartbreak so many are feeling: “We are absolutely heartbroken but she will always be with us forever in our hearts. All our love, Gareth, Steph and her boys.”

Amy’s tribute, filled with emotion and gratitude, reflects just how tight-knit and supportive the cancer community can be — but also how devastating each loss feels. For someone who’s walked the same terrifying path, this loss clearly struck a painful chord. Amy’s words show not just sorrow, but a deep respect for Sophie’s legacy and the strength she showed throughout.

Don’t Miss These: