Dame Deborah James dies from bowel cancer age 40
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Deborah James has died from bowel cancer at the age of 40 today. Tributes have flooded in for the late BBC broadcaster who spent her final days raising money for cancer charities in her generous final farewell gift.
Such a huge loss.
Julia Bradbury
Hearing the news, celebrities and social media users alike rushed to the internet to share their condolences.
Eamonn Holmes shared a picture from last week’s Ascot where he and wife Ruth Langsford spoke to Deborah.
He penned: “Bye Dame Deborah. This was just 2 weeks ago at Ascot. She told us then that she had been given just a week to live and had already out lasted that by 2 weeks. May you #RestinPeace.”
Julia Bradbury, who underwent a mastectomy for breast cancer, said: “Heartbroken that Dame Deborah James has died.
“She has been the most incredible ambassador of life & cancer campaigner.
“My thoughts are with her family & children. Such a huge loss. Your bright light will shine on Deborah.”
Stacey Solomon wrote: “Thank you for everything you did Deborah. “What an incredible legacy you’ve left. Rest in peace Deborah.”
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A post shared by Deborah James (@bowelbabe)
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A post shared by Eamonn Holmes OBE (@eamonnholmes)
Davina McCall added: “Oh Deborah … thank you thank you for everything you have done … leaving such a huge legacy … Thank you for having such a positive impact on so many of us.
“Thank you for making us look and re-examine our lives and for educating us all.
“Thank you for raising all of that money for others … you were a total firecracker… you will be so missed . RIP x and so much love to your family and your beautiful kids x.” (sic)
In a statement shared to her Instagram page, it was confirmed that Deborah died peacefully today surrounded by her family.
It read: “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.
“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.”
Deborah took her cancer diagnosis in her stride, and became a very successful campaigner for Bowel Cancer.
When she went public about going into palliative care the former BBC broadcaster set up a fundraising page in the name Bowel Babe Fund.
In the heartbreaking message, she wrote: “So, I suppose this is the message I never wanted to get to! But it’s written with a vision that I’m truly determined to deliver.
“We have tried everything, but my body simply isn’t playing ball.
“Even with all the innovative cancer drugs in the world or some magic new breakthrough, I realise that my rollercoaster of a ride is coming to an end very soon.
“Your support in establishing the Bowelbabe Fund, continuing to spread the word, and smashing those poo taboos will forever be cherished!”
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