Dame Deborah James’ family’s heartbreaking Instagram statement in full

The family of Dame Deborah James announced the death of the BBC podcast star at the age of 40 after her brave battle with cancer came to an end

Dame Deborah James has lost her battle with cancer at the age of 40, her family have announced on Instagram.

The mum-of-two, who launched a fundraising page called Bowelbabe to raise money for Cancer Research UK, was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer just before Christmas 2016, when she was aged 35.

She raised millions in the first couple of weeks of the fundraiser being launched and in the wake of her passing, it surged past £6.77million.

Her passing was announced in a statement alongside a beautiful photo of the BBC podcaster and a video of Deborah dancing as the sun sets.

The statement on Instagram read: "Dame Deborah James.

"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. "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."

The statement from Deborah James' family

Image:

( bowelbabe/Instagram)

The family also shared a special message from Deborah.

The statement concluded: "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"

While the much-loved star continued to maintain a positive outlook amid her cancer battle, she took to social media in May to reveal that she no longer knew how long she had left as she opened up about her stage 4 cancer.

Dame Deborah James with her daughter

Image:

( bowelbabe/Instagram)

Deborah, who is behind the popular BBC podcast 'You, Me and the Big C', said that although she had been fighting her illness for five years, it was still not easy to accept and say goodbye.

In her final weeks, the mum-of-two revealed she was receiving end-of-life care at her home in Surrey.

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

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