BBC Strictly Come Dancing star Ali Bastian has shared an emotional post as she continues to fight cancer. Last month the Doctors and Hollyoaks actress told of her shock at being diagnosed with Stage Two breast cancer.
Now the 42-year-old has shared another step of her life-changing journey as she told how she was losing her hair. In an Instagram post she shared a series of pictures as her long hair was at first cut and then as she shaved it off.
She went on to post a series of pictures both wearing hats – which one follower said she “rocked” – and showing her shaved head. Posting on Instagram she said: “When you have breast cancer, every month is breast cancer awareness month.
“Hair loss is just one aspect of all of this that we all wish wasn’t a side effect but I know it’s not forever and a small price to pay for the chance to be well again. The deeper I get into my treatment, the more I see this as an outward expression of how stripped back and raw it feels right now.
“Also sharing as this feels like part of my way… not ‘back’ to myself… as I will be forever changed… but forward towards my future …to show up as I am right now. In the truth of today. For all of the warrior women going through this. You are not alone.”
Ali broke the news of her cancer last month when she told how she discovered a lump when she was breastfeeding her daughter Isabella. At first it was thought the mum, who reached the semi-final of the 2009 series of Strictly Come Dancing, had a blocked milk duct but it was later discovered it was cancer.
She is now undergoing treatment including weekly chemotherapy ahead of having a mastectomy and radiotherapy treatment next year. She earlier told OK magazine of her shock at the diagnosis.
She said then: “It was a total shock. I have mornings when I wake up and I’ve forgotten… and then suddenly I remember. I’m still trying to process it.”
Following her post fellow stars were quick to support her. Strictly dancer Karen Hauer said: “Sending you all the love.” Actress Lizzie Cundy added: “You are so amazing Ali . Sending you so much love and strength my lovely friend.”
Singer-songwriter Alexandra Burke, who has also appeared as a contestant in Strictly Come Dancing, said: “Sending you much love xxxxxx all my prayers are with you.2” And actress Rhea Bailey said: “Go Ali!! You are awesome! So brave and so beautiful!!! You are gorgeous inside and out!! x x You’ve got this !! This too shall pass.”