After hearing from her family that Dame Deborah James had passed away at age 40 after a protracted fight with colon cancer, condolences poured in.
Comments praised the mother of two for her amazing legacy, “tireless” activism, and remarkable fundraising.
Early in May, the activist and podcaster made public the fact that she had ceased undergoing active treatment and was receiving end-of-life care at her parents’ house in Woking, with the presence of her husband Sebastien and their two children.
The host of the BBC podcast You, Me, and the Big C raised millions of dollars for research during her dying weeks and was appointed a dame for her “tireless” efforts to raise awareness of the condition.
Following her daughter’s death from colon cancer at the age of 40, Heather says she is “broken” inside.
Bowelgran, Heather James’ online alias, published several images of Dame Deborah along with the statement, “My heart is devastated.” Love you always.”
Fans, politicians, and celebrities flocked to the inspirational campaigner to pay their respects.
RIP Deborah James – a selfless inspiration, tweeted Minister of State Michelle Donelan. Her family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.
First Dates character Deborah James passed away, Fred Sirieix tweeted. Stupid thing. RIP’
Piers Morgan tweeted in the meantime, “RIP Dame Deborah James, nicknamed Bowel Babe. A genuinely amazing and motivating woman. Such tragic news.
Charlotte Hawkins, the host of Good Morning Britain, called Dame Deborah James “inspirational.”
Oh no…heartbreaking news that @bowelbabe has passed away, she tweeted. What a role model, a truly exceptional individual who helped so many people and saved lives.
She demonstrated that despite receiving a terminal prognosis, she was still able to live life to the fullest. Many thanks to her family and friends.
Rest in peace, @Bowelbabe, Carol Vorderman tweeted in honor of Dame Deborah James. Your amazing spirit will continue to exist.
Chris Stark, a radio host for the BBC, noted on Twitter that Dame Deborah had inspired many.
And he tweeted, “Dame Deborah James.”
“You accomplished everything to the utmost and influenced so many people. No one is capable of doing more. No matter where this all goes, I hope we can have a gin.
“Thinking about your family, friends, and everyone else who is experiencing anything comparable.” Peace be with you, Debs x’
Dame Deborah was called a “outstanding activist” by Angela Rayner, the deputy leader of the Labour Party.
She wrote on Twitter, “Deborah James, rest in peace. What a remarkable, strong, intelligent, and clever woman.
“A truly outstanding campaigner.” Thank you, @bowelbabe, for inspiring millions with your rebellious hope.
“Considering your numerous loved ones.”
Julia Bradbury, a TV host, called Dame Deborah “the most incredible ambassador of life.”
Heartbroken at the passing of Dame Deborah James, she tweeted.
She has been the most amazing cancer and pro-life ambassador.
“My heart goes out to her family and kids,” I said. What a terrible loss. You’ll shine a bright light on Deborah.
Gaby Roslin, a TV host, wrote on Twitter: “Bye bye my beautiful friend Deborah.
“You will always shine so brilliantly.” I appreciate everything you did. For the smiles, the dancing, and most importantly for everything you did for others during your little lifetime.
“To the entire family, my love.” Simply heartbreaking”
Dame Deborah James served as a patron of Bowel Cancer UK, whose CEO, Genevieve Edwards, claimed the podcaster had transformed her diagnosis into “an enormous force for good.”
We’re profoundly grieved by the passing of our patron, Dame Deborah James, and our thoughts are with her family and all of her friends. Deborah was a real inspiration, and her star blazed brightly.
“She transformed her colon cancer diagnosis into an enormous force for good and will have saved countless lives via her persistent campaigning to raise awareness of bowel cancer symptoms.”
Deborah infused her work with kindness, vigor, and integrity. She never stopped assisting others, not even through the most trying moments she experienced while battling intestinal cancer.
We feel really fortunate to have known Deborah and be able to call her a friend. She left a wonderful legacy through her BowelBabe Fund, a monument to the love and affection so many people had for her. She was a strong supporter for Bowel Cancer UK.