Helen Skelton has shared her support for Strictly star Amy Dowden for "fighting a silent battle".
Helen became close to the Strictly professional while on the latest series of the show, where she made it to the final. Some of the stars have remained close since the last series concluded earlier this month, and Helen has told her fans to watch the dancer's documentary.
Amy opens up about her battle with Crohn's disease she was diagnosed with at age 11. The show called 'Strictly Amy: Crohn's and me' sees the dancer open up about the secret she’d keep out of the professional spotlight for fear of it overshadowing her success.
The Welsh dancing star shows us the brutal reality of living with this disease, while trying to manage work. Her condition has often left her hospitalised.
Amy is set to debut her a solo dance show, is heading on tour with Strictly Come Dancing, and has a wedding to plan. In the documentary she also hears about the severe impact this incurable disease has had on others.
In an article she wrote for the BBC, Amy said: "Although the condition isn't visible from the outside, some of the symptoms and medication can have an effect on the way I look - it's something I've been body shamed about and that hurts.
"My Crohn's flare-ups are frustrating and annoying without everybody else bringing it to your attention - and it's even worse when it's comments from people you don't know. It really sticks with me."
Speaking to her fans on Instagram, Helen Skelton is asking people to support Amy. She shared a picture of the Strictly team and said: "Some top bananas in this photo but if you get a chance this week to watch Amy Dowden documentary on iPlayer please do.
"She is one of those women that keeps going whilst fighting a silent battle. Warrior woman respect and love to you.
"Thanks for your insight and sharing your story. Thanks for being one of those women who keeps getting back up."
Gorka Marquez, who was partnered with Helen on Strictly, said: "Well said."
Strictly Amy: Crohn's and Me is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
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