Why did Danielle Fishel say yes to DWTS dance after breast cancer treatment this season?
Battle against cancer, new thinking
Danielle Fishel saw a turning point in her life when she battled early-stage breast cancer, or DCIS.
On the podcast Pod Meets World, she openly revealed that the lumpectomy in August and margin revision surgery in September did not force her to stop, but inspired her to move forward.
“I wanted fun”
As soon as the treatment was over, Danielle thought, “If it has taught me anything, it is that I am not feeling enough joy in life.”
Even after completing the daily challenges, there was an emptiness inside.
She said, “I was managing work and family, but the question was – where is the fun?”
DWTS: An instant ‘yes’
When ABC’s Dancing with the Stars made an offer, Danielle said “YES” faster than anyone else.
Her pairing with Pasha Pashkov surprised everyone.
In her words, “The idea of doing this was perfect – the capstone of cancer treatment.”
The Pain and Excitement of Treatment
The 20 rounds of radiation took a toll on Danielle both physically and emotionally.
“I would wake up feeling burning, aggravated by the sunburn and the pain from the rash.”
But each day her desire to live life to the fullest grew stronger.
Celebrating “Yes to This Year” with renewed vigor
After treatment, Danielle chose a friendly mantra for herself:
“Say yes to everything this year.” That thought led her to the DWTS stage.
“I’ve never said yes so loudly!” She said. That little “yes” changed her world.
Dance Floor of Dreams
In Season 34, apart from Danielle Fishel, celebrities like Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, Scott Hoying, Elaine Hendrix, Baron Davis, Corey Feldman, Lauren Jauregui and Andy Richter will also dance for the Mirrorball Trophy.
When and how to watch
Dancing with the Stars Season 34 premieres September 16.
Episodes air live every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET and PT on ABC, and stream the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
This journey is a celebration of Danielle Fishel’s courage, pursuit of happiness, and craving for new experiences.
Cancer didn’t stop her, but pushed her in a direction where every step feels like a celebration.
Get ready to see the most vibrant dance moves of the year!