In memory of Dame Deborah James

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.”