South Wales Echo

Amy’s emotional message to Kate after cancer news

- ELLIE IORIZZO & KERRI-ANN ROPER Press Associatio­n Reporters echo.newsdesk@walesonlin­e.co.uk

THE Princess of Wales’ revelation she is undergoing treatment for cancer has sparked an outpouring of well wishes from around the world – including an emotional message of support from Strictly star and fellow cancer patient Amy Dowden.

In a video message released on Friday evening, Kate spoke about the “huge shock” after tests identified cancer following her abdominal surgery and the “incredibly tough couple of months” her family have experience­d, with her voice cracking with emotion at times during the footage.

The form of cancer has not been disclosed but the future Queen began a course of “preventati­ve chemothera­py” late in February.

Following the release of the video, Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden said the news from Kate had “personally hit me hard”, coming less than a year after the profession­al dancer was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and received chemothera­py treatment.

“Thinking so much about our Princess, Cancer doesn’t discrimina­te,” she said.

“There’s no textbook, right or wrong way to deal with a diagnosis and treatment. It’s personal and I really hope all can be kind and support our Princess.”

The 33-year-old from Caerphilly was diagnosed with cancer last May.

Since her initial diagnosis, Dowden has had numerous health setbacks.

She revealed that “no evidence of disease” was found during a health check last month, but she will not receive the “all clear” for five years due to her type of cancer.

Dowden, writing on social media, added: “I was lucky enough to meet The Princess of Wales during my treatment who was so kind, supportive and generous

of time. Sending all my well wishes with treatment ahead and as always to all those affected by cancer.”

Mental health campaigner Dr Alex George was also among the celebritie­s who have previously met the Princess to reflect on her warmth and to wish her a speedy recovery.

Dr Alex, who rose to fame on Love Island and is now a TV doctor campaignin­g on mental health issues, hosted a panel discussion with William and Kate last year.

The Carmarthen-raised physician said: “The Princess of Wales left a real impression on me when we met for World Mental Health Day.

“I have met so many people who talk about mental health over the years, I have come to learn who talks the talk, and who walks the walk. The Princess is a stomper. A real good egg.

“It’s been pretty shocking to see the level of intrusion over the last few weeks and months, you can only imagine the effect on this person’s mental health.”

Former reality TV contestant Dr Alex has been an advocate for mental health following the death of his 19-year-old brother Llyr in July 2020.

 ?? CHRIS JACKSON ?? Catherine, The Princess of Wales, announced last week that she is receiving a preventati­ve course of chemothera­py for cancer. Amy Dowden, inset, is among the celebrity well wishers
CHRIS JACKSON Catherine, The Princess of Wales, announced last week that she is receiving a preventati­ve course of chemothera­py for cancer. Amy Dowden, inset, is among the celebrity well wishers
 ?? ??
 ?? ?? Dr Alex George
Dr Alex George

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom