Dame Deborah James has tragically died at the age of forty following a lengthy battle with bowel cancer.
The cancer campaigner passed away today surrounded by family and friends.
In an emotional post shared onto her Bowel Babe Instagram account, Deborah’s family wrote: “We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy.
“Deborah passed away peacefully today, surrounded by her family.”
The post continued: “Deborah, who many of you will know as Bowelbabe, was an inspiration and we are incredibly proud of her and her work and commitment to charitable campaigning, fundraising and her endless efforts to raise awareness of cancer that touched so many lives.
“Deborah shared her experience with the world to raise awareness, break down barriers, challenge taboos and change the conversation around cancer. Even in her most challenging moments, her determination to raise money and awareness was inspiring.
“We thank you for giving us time in private as a family, and we look forward to continuing Deborah’s legacy long into the future through the @bowelbabefund”.
The message concluded with some final words from Deborah herself: “Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope. And finally, check your poo – it could just save your life.”
Deborah – known for her role in the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C – was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in 2016, and grew in popularity with her candid social media updates and various charitable efforts for cancer research.
After being moved into end of life hospice care in May, Deborah was able to raise over £6.7 million for her Bowel Babe Fund, which raises money for charities close to her heart, including Cancer Research UK, Bowel Cancer UK and The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
In that short time, she was also awarded a damehood for her ‘tireless campaigning’, with Prince William visiting her at her home to honour her with the award just days after the tragic news.
Deborah also announced she had written a book titled ‘How To Live When You Could Be Dead’, saying she wanted to share ‘how to have a positive mindset when we are faced with life’s biggest challenges’.
First announcing her prognosis back in May, Deborah wrote in a heartbreaking social media post: “We have tried everything, but my body simply isn’t playing ball.
“My active care has stopped and I am now moved to hospice at home care, with my incredible family all around me and the focus is on making sure I’m not in pain and spending time with them.
“Nobody knows how long I’ve got left but I’m not able to walk, I’m sleeping most of the days, and most things I took for granted are pipe dreams.
“I know we have left no stone unturned. But even with all the innovative cancer drugs in the world or some magic new breakthrough, my body just can’t continue anymore.”
For more information on bowel cancer and the early signs to look out for, visit Bowel Cancer UK and Cancer Research UK.