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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
James Brinsford

Dame Deborah James' Bowelbabe fund donations spiral after she loses cancer battle

Dame Deborah James sadly lost her battle with cancer at the age of 40 on Tuesday, with her passing announced on her Bowelbabe Instagram page.

The BBC podcast star had been preparing for her death for the past couple of months, with her staying with her parents after stopping her treatment for cancer.

During this time, Deborah set up a fundraising page called Bowelbabe and in a short time she had raised over £6million for Cancer Research UK.

In a defiant message when launching her campaign, Deborah 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!"

Dame Deborah James has lost her battle with cancer, aged 40 (bowelbabe/Instagram)
Deborah James with her daughter Eloise (Instagram/ @bowelbabe)

Since her death was announced today, the Bowelbabe fund has seen another huge climb in donations with thousands more pledged, taking the total to over £6,820,147.

Deborah's death was announced on her BowelBabe Instagram with the post reading: "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.

Bowelbabe fund donations surge after Dame Deborah's death (JustGiving)

"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.

"Thank you for playing your part in her journey, you are all incredible.

Deborah James has accomplished a lot since ending her cancer treatment (Instagram/ @bowelbabe)

"And a few final things from Deborah…“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. x"

Dame Deborah leaves behind husband Sebastien and children Eloise, 12, and Hugo, 14.

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