Shirley Ballas has shared her relief with fans after she received test results confirming there is “no cancer present”. It comes after the Strictly Come Dancing star revealed she was being tested for the disease last week, having undergone three biopsies.
Taking to Instagram today, the 63-year-old BBC star shared the health update with her 334,000 followers. She posted a special message to her grid with the caption: “Thank you to you all for your well-wishes following my two mammograms, one ultrasound and three biopsies last week.
“I am feeling blessed to share that my results have come back all clear – there is no cancer present. X” (sic) Shirley also credited Macmillan Cancer Support and her Strictly co-star Amy Dowden, who has been bravely raising awareness during her own battle with breast cancer.
The message attached went on to say: “Sharing the picture to my story last week very much triggered my emotions, but I feel it’s only right for me to share both the highs and the lows of life.”
Shirley continued: “If I was able to help just one lady, then sharing my picture was worth it. I got my recall while on holiday and I immediately cleared my diary to allow for the appointment.
“I urge all women to do the same. Please do not put your mammogram, smear test or in fact any appointment off. They really can change your life.
“Who knows what may have happened if I put mine off? Get booked, get checked, get your body MOT everyone.
“With immense gratitude to friends, family and fans who reached out. I appreciate you more than you know.”
She then signed off: “Love and hugs, Shirley x.” (sic)
Last week, Shirley revealed she had been tested for cancer and admitted that her “biggest fear” was to die before her mother, Audrey, who is 87 years old.
The dancer, who has a history of cancer in her family, opened up about the “agonising” waiting process and described having a tissue sample taken from her.
She told The Mirror: “It’s been terrifying, to have the needle go in your body to numb it before the biopsy. Every time the phone rings, I think, ‘Oh, maybe they are my results’.”
Shirley continued: “My dear student and friend Amy said to me, ‘You must never miss a mammogram’. So when this particular invite came in I could have put it off until the summer when it is a bit quieter. But I’m glad I didn’t.”
