Broadcaster, podcaster and cancer campaigner Dame Deborah James has died aged 40.
The mum of two passed away at her home, where she received end-of-life care. Deborah was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2016.
Tributes have poured in for Deborah, who was described as an "inspiration" after raising millions for cancer research in the months before she died. Pippa O'Connor and more Irish celebs shared their condolences on Instagram and Twitter.
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The host of the BBC's You, Me and the Big C podcast was given a damehood in May in recognition of her fundraising. In a heartbreaking tribute, Deborah's family announced her death.
In a statement on her Instagram page, they said: "We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy."
Her family said Dame Deborah shared her cancer experience 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 was praised for her no-nonsense approach to talking about cancer, having shared her treatment experiences and daily life since her diagnosis in 2016. The deputy headteacher started a cancer blog before going on to write for the Sun and became a BBC broadcaster.
Sadly on May 9, she announced that she was no longer receiving active care and did not know how long she had left. Posting to her Instagram, she said: "My body just can't continue anymore."
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She launched a new fund, the Bowelbabe fund, to raise money for research into personalised medicine for cancer patients. It surpassed £1m in less than 24 hours - smashing her initial goal of £250,000 - and has now raised almost £7m.
Prince William gave Deborah a damehood at her parents' home in Woking, Surrey, where she had chosen to stay in May. Her goal was to raise awareness about bowel cancer, as she continuously urged people to check for symptoms.
Following an operation, Deborah ordered a poo costume online that she wore during an episode of her podcast. She signed off her final podcast in May and said: "Check your poo. Come on. I can't leave on any other word apart from check your poo.
"I still have images of me dancing in poo outfits everywhere. So maybe I should leave on that final word. Check your poo."
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