Today marks the one year anniversary of the heartbreaking death of Dame Deborah James.
Deborah tragically passed away in June of last year at the age of 40 after being diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2016.
She was widely known for being a broadcaster as well as an active campaigner for cancer research and had the BowelBabe Fund for Cancer Research UK set up to raise much needed funds.
Many famous faces and members of Deborah’s family have taken to social media to share touching tributes for Deborah to mark her anniversary.
Her mum, Heather, penned a very emotional statement on Instagram as she reflected on her daughter’s inspiring life.
She wrote, “Today is the first anniversary of our eldest child Deborah’s death. Deborah came into the world full of energy and never stopped over the next 40 years”.
“The past 12 months have not been easy but we remember with immense pride and love the amazing impact she had on so many lives and the incredible legacy she has left”.
“We were young parents when Deborah was born and the first cuddles and touches with your firstborn are something you remember for ever and cannot be taken away from you - life with Debs was always interesting, fun, and manic but there was always a determination in her to help others achieve their full potential especially in her teaching career”.
“When first diagnosed with Bowel Cancer it took us time to realise the seriousness of her diagnosis but we immediately knew she wanted to share her story with others to establish open communication about a subject that many considered a taboo - you will all agree she succeeded!”.
Heather went on to remember the immense support that the family received from one another during the difficult five years after Deborah’s diagnosis.
“During her final weeks at home the atmosphere was unique but most importantly loving - we all understood what the end would be, although I struggled to believe that Deborah was facing the end of her life that she loved so much, but there was a determination to enjoy every last minute and experiences we had together. Although I’m sure nobody expected that Prince William would join us for tea & champagne!!”.
“Deborah you always provided a challenge but it was your ability to put it in the right direction and communicate so brilliantly that made a difference”.
She closed off by adding, “As your brother said on the eve of your funeral - from the beginning you taught me how to live - you had that effect on far more people than you ever knew and that is why you were so loved and are now so missed - Deborah we love you for ever”.
Many famous faces took to the comments to share their own tributes for Deborah.
I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here star Giovanna Fletcher wrote, “Such beautiful words Heather. My Deborah James roses have been growing in the garden and I think about you all whenever I take in their blooms. Sending so much love”.
“I’ve re read this a few times now. Incredibly moving. I often think about Deborah and all the good she did in this life. We have a lot to thank her for”, penned Loose Women’s Katie Piper.
Columnist Em Clarkson added, “I think about debs so often heather, you’re so right, she taught so many of us how to live and what a legacy. It’s a sadder world without her in it, im thinking of you all today”.
Since being set up in May 2022, the BowelBabe Fund has raised an incredible £11.3M for cancer research.
