Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas has revealed her “terrifying” cancer scare after doctors found lumpy tissue in her left breast.
The 63-year-old – who has undergone three biopsies – is now urging other women to get checked for early signs of cancer.
Ballasalso shared her biggest fear – dying before her 87-year-old mum Audrey.
In an emotional interview, the star says she is worried that she has “worked herself to death”.
“I’m worried I’ve worked myself to death. It’s been terrifying, to have the needle go in your body to numb it before the biopsy,” she told The Sun.
“I feel very emotional. I’m not the same at work at the moment, so I’m teaching, but it’s constantly on my mind.”
She added: “I feel very emotional. Every time the phone rings I think, ‘Oh, maybe they are my results’.”
In 2019, the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing had her breast implants removed to make it easier for doctors to spot cancer.
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It comes as pro dancer Amy Dowden recovers from breast cancer after being diagnosed in May last year.
The dancer discovered a lump in her breast just one day before heading off on her honeymoon with husband Ben Jones – still deciding to jet off to the Maldives.
Upon returning, Dowden went for a scan and was quickly told it was breast cancer, immediately starting treatment and breaking the news to her loyal following.
Ballas said: “My dear student and friend Amy said to me, ‘You must never miss a mammogram’.
In 2019, the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing had her breast implants removed to make it easier for doctors to spot cancer
PA
“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.”
She explained that after having her scans a doctor told her: “I don’t want to alarm you but we found something and we’re not sure what it is.”
Following three biopsies, Ballas said she does not mind about the scars as long as her results come back all-clear.
She said: “My biggest fear would be that I pass before my mother. I couldn’t think of anything worse.
“Because she needs me as much as I need her and at 87 she’s amazing. She takes care of me. I told her I was fine, but inside I was nervous.”
The star added: “We’re our own beautiful machine, and we need our MoT. Check your body, check your breasts. It might save your life.”
James Parker is a UK-based entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to the West End, he offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
