Michaela Strachan, the much-loved wildlife presenter from Springwatch, is preparing for a dazzling new chapter in her life as she steps onto the ice for the much-anticipated Dancing on Ice competition. However, this exciting journey comes on the heels of a profoundly challenging year, marked by heartbreaking losses and a serious injury. Strachan has bravely opened up about how these personal struggles have shaped her resolve to entertain audiences on a new platform.
Heartbreak and Loss
In a recent podcast, Michaela revealed the emotional toll of the past year, which she described as relentless with tragedy striking close to home. Her sister-in-law’s battle with cancer ended in January, a loss that hit hard not only for her family but for all who knew them. Sadly, it didn’t stop there; her partner Nick Chevallier’s ex-wife and best friend also passed away due to cancer and heart-related issues, respectively. To add to the sorrow, a friend named Lucy, who had a similar cancer diagnosis to Michaela herself, also lost her life after bravely fighting breast cancer.
A Year of Challenges
Michaela shared that she has faced numerous challenges, stating, “This year has been really sad,” as she reflects on the profound impact these losses have had on her. Despite the difficulties, she highlights the importance of staying strong and positive, and this resilience is something she hopes to convey in her performance.
Injury Before the Show
Adding to the stress of the situation, just two months before the launch of Dancing on Ice, Michaela suffered a significant ankle sprain. This injury occurred while jogging with her partner, sparking concerns about her readiness for the physically demanding show. Nick expressed his worries about her safety on the ice, especially given the strenuous nature of the competition.
Support from Family
Despite her injury, Michaela is determined to participate in Dancing on Ice, which kicks off on January 12. She will not be alone on this journey; her son, Ollie, brother, and beloved stepdaughter are providing tremendous support. They, along with many friends from school, are cheering her on as she prepares to showcase her skills.
Striking the Right Balance
In the midst of all these challenges, Michaela is also juggling filming for Winterwatch, ensuring that she can balance her commitments with her training. Even her partner, who lives in South Africa, is excited about her performance and plans to return to the UK to watch her skate as soon as possible.
Facing Fears and Embracing Fun
Though there are concerns about the risks of skating, Michaela approaches the show with enthusiasm. She sees Dancing on Ice not just as a physical challenge but as a chance to embrace her love of performance and music. She noted that her exciting background in musical theatre would play a crucial role as she prepares to entertain audiences across the nation.
Cancer Survivor’s Perspective
Michaela’s journey as a breast cancer survivor adds an inspiring chapter to her story. Diagnosed in 2014, she underwent a double mastectomy and has been open about her experience, using her platform to raise awareness of health issues. Even now, she feels a profound connection to her late friend Lucy, who she supported during her illness, and embraces the positive side of sharing her story through her dance.
Poised for Performance
As Dancing on Ice approaches, Michaela Strachan’s heart is set not just on competing but on celebrating life and resilience. She aims to channel her experiences into this new adventure while bringing joy to viewers who have followed her journey for years. With the support of her family, the courage to overcome her fears, and the excitement of performing, Michaela is ready to skate her way back into the spotlight.