Dianne Buswell’s triumph on *Strictly Come Dancing* last year was a significant milestone in her career, but it was also a deeply personal and emotional journey. 

The Australian dancer not only lifted the prestigious Glitterball trophy for the first time

but also had the profound joy of sharing her victory with her family in the Strictly ballroom—a moment she had long awaited.

Throughout the season, Dianne’s fans were given glimpses into the emotional challenges she faced behind the scenes, especially as her father, Mark Buswell, battled cancer.

The reunion with her parents after a long separation was a highlight of the series, marking a poignant moment for Dianne

as she reflected on the personal trials she had faced in the lead-up to her *Strictly* success.

In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, Dianne posted a sweet photograph of her parents, Mark and Rina, helping out in the kitchen of the £3.5 million home she shares with her boyfriend, Joe Sugg.

Dianne, who met Joe on *Strictly* in 2018, added two smiling emojis with tears, signaling the deep emotional impact of their reunion.

For Dianne, the moment was particularly special, as it marked the first time her parents were able to see her perform on the iconic *Strictly* stage in person.

The reunion came after an emotional year for Dianne, as she returned to Australia with Joe at the end of 2023 to be by her father’s side during his cancer treatment.

Dianne has been open about how her father’s illness affected her, sharing several emotional tributes on social media. She described Mark as her “hero,” praising his unwavering strength throughout his battle and his ability to smile despite the pain.

In a post from April of the previous year, Dianne shared a montage of pictures and clips documenting her father’s treatment journey. One of the most moving moments in the video was a scene showing Dianne holding her dad’s hand in the hospital.

The video ended with Mark ringing the bell to mark the end of his treatment, symbolizing a major milestone in his recovery.

The video was accompanied by a heartfelt message from Dianne, who wrote: “To my daddy, you did it 6 months later and 12 rounds done.”

In her post, Dianne expressed how proud she was of her father for his resilience, writing, “I am so so PROUD of you it’s been a tough road but you have always done it with a smile and a thumbs up. I know you were scared and I know it was not easy but you have done it.”

She also praised her mother, Rina, for being a constant source of support for Mark throughout the treatment, saying, “To my beautiful mum who has not left your side and been the best support system ever thank you. Us kids are so lucky to have you both we love you so much.”

Their reunion in the UK was a bittersweet moment, as Dianne reflected on how her family had never been able to watch her perform live on *Strictly* before.

In addition to celebrating her win, Dianne shared that her parents had visited her and her dance partner Chris in training, adding, “This year of Strictly has been special in so many ways thanks to the wonderful Chris! This is just the cherry on top. Magic moments that I’ll cherish forever.”

On February 4, Dianne took to Instagram to mark World Cancer Day, reflecting on her father’s recovery and the emotional impact it had on her. She shared a photo of Mark in the hospital during his treatment, accompanied by a moving caption: “Sending love to all those affected.

My dear dad, two years ago was unrecognisable. It broke my heart to see him in so much pain. But with the help of the doctors, nurses, and wonderful people around him, he pulled through.”

Dianne also paid tribute to her *Strictly* co-star, Amy Dowden, who battled breast cancer in 2023. Sharing Amy’s post marking World Cancer Day, Dianne wrote, “And this wonderful human,” along with pink heart emojis, showing her support for her friend during her own health struggles.

In addition to her personal triumphs and emotional moments, Dianne’s success on *Strictly Come Dancing* has been a source of inspiration for many.

Her ability to balance her demanding career with personal challenges, particularly her father’s illness, has resonated with fans.

The love and support from her family, especially during the most difficult times, has been a central theme in Dianne’s journey, reminding us all of the importance of resilience, love, and support in the face of adversity.

As Dianne continues her career and shares her life with her fans, her emotional journey remains a testament to the power of family and determination in overcoming life’s challenges.