A British podcaster dedicated to cancer has passed away after successfully raising millions of dollars for research through a widely spread online campaign. Her family announced her departure, praising her "endless efforts for awareness" about the disease, according to Agence France-Presse.
Deborah James, known as "Bowel Babe" on Instagram, where she had nearly a million followers, announced in mid-May that she was receiving palliative care after months of sharing her daily battle with colon and rectal cancer on social media.
Her family wrote on Instagram last night, "She was an inspiration, and we are so proud of her and her work and efforts to raise funds and her tireless efforts to raise cancer awareness," stating that she passed away "peacefully" during the day.
Days after announcing her transition to palliative care, Deborah James was awarded an honorary title of "Dame" with the approval of Queen Elizabeth for her "tireless campaign" against the disease. Prince William visited her to present the honor.
The mother of two, aged twelve and fourteen, aimed to raise £250,000 before her passing, but the total she achieved during her widely shared initiative on social media reached around £7 million ($8.5 million).
Since being diagnosed with cancer in 2016, James, who was a deputy headteacher, gained fame through her participation in presenting the podcast "You, Me and the Big C." She also published a book about her illness.
Her death elicited emotional responses on social media, with users praising Deborah James for her "determination" and "incredible legacy."
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted, "I was deeply saddened to hear of Deborah James's passing. What an inspiration she was to many." He added, "Thanks to her, many lives will be saved."
Prince William and his wife Kate considered that "Deborah was an inspiring woman with unwavering courage, and her legacy will live on."
