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In memory of Dame Deborah James

The Cancer Research UK logo
by Cancer Research UK | News

29 June 2022

3 comments 3 comments

Dame Deborah James, also know as BowelBabe

Last night, Dame Deborah James’s family announced that she passed away peacefully at home, after living with bowel cancer since 2016.

Since her diagnosis, Deborah tirelessly campaigned for bowel cancer awareness as ‘Bowel Babe’. She will be greatly missed, and her legacy will continue long into the future.

Michelle Mitchell, our chief executive officer, said:

“We are devastated to hear that Dame Deborah James has died, and our thoughts are with her family and friends.

“Since being diagnosed with cancer in 2016, Deborah did whatever she could to fundraise, challenge taboos, and raise awareness of cancer – with honesty, compassion and humour.  She was an inspiration to so many people, and her impact will be felt for years to come.

“A powerful writer, reporter and broadcaster, Deborah shone a light on the devastating impact of COVID on cancer care, and was a passionate advocate for the power of science and early diagnosis.

“Becoming a dame was a wonderful and fitting recognition for all Deborah achieved.  We’re honoured to have worked with Deborah and her family in establishing the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK to continue her legacy.

“The fund will support causes and projects that Deborah was passionate about, including working with others such as the Institute of Cancer Research, The Royal Marsden and Bowel Cancer UK.

“The overwhelming support the fund has received so far is a testament to how many people Deborah touched with her warmth, energy and sense of fun. She was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by so many people. We are thinking of her loved ones during this difficult time.”

    Comments

  • Gail E. Godfrey ( volunteer
    14 July 2022

    I am unwell this yr as my throat cancer in the past is now deteriating my swallow. Am resting at home but raised £50 for C.R. selling tomatoes plants. Already donated

  • Rose Murphy
    13 July 2022

    Dame Deborah was a wonderful lady may she rest in peace. She has left a fabulous legacy. May her family take great comfort in that. 💛⭐️

  • Michael Cox
    5 July 2022

    Dame Deborah was the shining light for Bowel Cancer.She fought a hard hard fight from the year of diagnosis till she passed away.But all the money she put forward for bowel cancer can really be a great sum for research.She ensured everyone would know ans as it shows with the thousands whom have come forward for checkups.So Dame Deborah will be sorely missed by family and all she came in contact with,bless you dame deborah we will forever look at the shining light from the stars watching over everyone RIP Dame Deborah.

    Comments

  • Gail E. Godfrey ( volunteer
    14 July 2022

    I am unwell this yr as my throat cancer in the past is now deteriating my swallow. Am resting at home but raised £50 for C.R. selling tomatoes plants. Already donated

  • Rose Murphy
    13 July 2022

    Dame Deborah was a wonderful lady may she rest in peace. She has left a fabulous legacy. May her family take great comfort in that. 💛⭐️

  • Michael Cox
    5 July 2022

    Dame Deborah was the shining light for Bowel Cancer.She fought a hard hard fight from the year of diagnosis till she passed away.But all the money she put forward for bowel cancer can really be a great sum for research.She ensured everyone would know ans as it shows with the thousands whom have come forward for checkups.So Dame Deborah will be sorely missed by family and all she came in contact with,bless you dame deborah we will forever look at the shining light from the stars watching over everyone RIP Dame Deborah.