Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has been left “gobsmacked” after receiving a personal invitation from King Charles and Queen Camilla to attend a reception at Buckingham Palace. Amy Dowden’s visit to Buckingham Palace marks an incredible moment in her career.
Dowden, 34, shared a photo of the embossed envelope on her social media as she travelled by train to London. She captioned the snap with heart and teary-eyed emojis, admitting she felt “so shocked and honoured” by the royal summons to Buckingham Palace.
The invitation, addressed directly to Ms. Dowden, requested her presence at a Community-Based Cancer Support Reception on Wednesday, April 30, at 6 p.m. The Master of the Household sent the formal letter on behalf of Their Majesties. The reception at Buckingham Palace is a testament to Amy Dowden’s inspiring journey.
Dowden has become an inspirational figure in the breast cancer community. Diagnosed with Grade 3 aggressive breast cancer in May 2023, she discovered a lump during her honeymoon with husband Ben Jones. She immediately began campaigning to raise awareness and encourage early detection.
Despite suffering life-threatening complications—including sepsis and blood clots—during her first two chemotherapy cycles, Dowden kept her spirits high. She documented every step of her journey on social media, offering solidarity and advice to fellow patients.
In August 2023, she faced a second cancer diagnosis and began another round of chemotherapy. Last February, Dowden announced her “no evidence of disease” scan results, calling the news “words I dreamed of.”
Dowden’s BBC documentary, Strictly Amy: Cancer and Me, provided an unflinching look at her treatment and recovery. She returned to Strictly in 2024 to partner with JLS star JB Gill but had to withdraw after a foot injury.
Tonight’s palace reception will honour Dowden and other community champions who support cancer survivors and raise public awareness. Dowden told reporters she views the invitation as recognition of her work beyond dance.
“I never imagined I’d receive an invite like this,” she said. “It feels like a huge nod to everyone fighting cancer.” The honour at Buckingham Palace is indeed significant for Amy Dowden.
Dowden’s fans applauded the news online, praising her resilience and celebrating the royal acknowledgement of her advocacy work. Various cancer charities also welcomed the recognition, citing Dowden’s openness as vital to breaking down treatment stigma.
As she prepares to enter the palace’s famous gates, Dowden remains committed to her mission. “This is just the beginning,” she said. “I hope this inspires more people to speak up and get checked.” Amy Dowden’s approach to her invitation from Buckingham Palace serves as a powerful message of hope.
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