Deborah James’ heartbroken parents call to ‘raise a glass’ as they toast in her memory

Dame Deborah James' parents have shared a sweet and poignant image of themselves raising a glass in honour of their daughter, who raised more than £7m for Cancer Research UK as well as awareness of bowel cancer

Dame Deborah James' parents have raised a glass in honour of their inspiring daughter who died this week, and are calling for her followers and fans to do the same.

The campaigner's mum Heather, who goes by the Instagram handle Bowelgran, shared a picture of herself and Deborah's dad Alastair raising glasses of red wine in a kitchen, as they smile at each other.

On the Instastory, Heather wrote: "Raise a glass for Dame Debs."

Deborah's death at the age of 40 was confirmed by her family in a poignant statement on social media.

Her mum also shared some pictures of her daughter, and admitted her heart was broken as she paid a sweet tribute to her daughter.

Deborah James' parents have raised a glass in memory of their daughter

Image:

( INSTAGRAM)

"My heart is broken. Love you forever," she wrote alongside a carousel of snaps.

In a long statement shared online, her family paid tribute.

"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," they wrote.

"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's family also shared a final message from the star herself.

In a poignant message, she said: "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"

Deborah did some incredibly things in her final days, raising millions of pounds for charity as well as living life to the full despite her terminal diagnosis.

Since her death, Deborah's Bowelbabe Fund has topped £7m for cancer research.

Her passing prompted tributes from The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and famous faces she met while campaigning.

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