Dame Deborah James
Deborah was a formidable supporter of the charity who did so much to raise awareness of bowel cancer and make a difference to people affected by the disease.
In April 2021, we were delighted when Dame Deborah became one of our patrons and continued her unwavering support for the cause. Following her diagnosis in 2016 at the age of just 35, Dame Deborah did a lot for the bowel cancer community, in particular to raise awareness about the disease in young people. From her Bowelbabe blog, to social media and tv and radio appearances, Deborah had an enormous impact. Her openness and honesty about her own diagnosis and experience, which she shared through her book 'F*** you cancer', her weekly column in The Sun, and the BBC podcast 'You, Me & the Big C, without doubt, saved lives and forever changed the way people talk about bowel cancer. We were devastated when Dame Deborah James sadly passed away in June 2022.
Dame Deborah’s legacy
We’re working towards a future where nobody dies of bowel cancer, and Dame Deborah James’ legacy continues to inspire us and our work.
It was in the final months of Dame Deborah’s life that she started what has become perhaps the most substantial part of her legacy, the Bowelbabe fund. Now managed by Cancer Research UK, this fund has raised millions to support research into bowel cancer, and to help raise awareness of the symptoms of the disease.
It’s thanks to the Bowelbabe Fund that we can run our awareness roadshows. Money raised in her memory has also helped fund targeted research, and continues to support those affected by the disease.
Talking about Dame Deborah, Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive at Bowel Cancer UK, said: “Dame Deborah continues to be a hugely inspirational figure for bowel cancer patients, their families and everyone touched by this disease. By talking openly about her illness and making people aware of what to look out for, she has undoubtedly saved many lives.
“Bowel cancer is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early, and we owe it to the legacy of an incredible woman who campaigned to the very end to make sure as many people as possible know this. Thank you, Dame Deborah, you will never be forgotten.”
The community
Following Dame Deborah’s death, we celebrated her legacy by asking people to share their memories of her and what her story meant to them. We join with our community in sharing our genuine thanks to her for the impact she had.
We’re here to support you
Dame Deborah shone a light on the experiences of bowel cancer patients, supporting so many people to feel less alone. We're proud to continue that work. From campaigning with people with lived experience of bowel cancer for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care across the UK to our expert information, support networks and Ask the Nurse service, we're here for the bowel cancer community.
- Find out how we can support you
- Read real life stories from people affected by bowel cancer
- Join our online communities
Photography credit: Sophie Mayanne