Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has paid tribute to Dame Deborah James, calling her a ‘huge inspiration’ during Prime Minister’s Questions. The podcast presenter, campaigner and blogger known as ‘Bowel Babe’ died aged 40 yesterday.
She had been diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in December 2016 and was told early on that she may not live beyond five years, and after raising awareness for the disease, she raised nearly £7million for Cancer Research UK in the final years of her life.
Standing in for Boris Johnson while he attends a Nato summit in Madrid, Mr Raab praised the podcaster and bowel cancer campaigner for raising millions for charity and inspiring others during her final months.
He told the Commons: ‘I know that the thoughts of the whole House will be with the family and friends of Dame Deborah James following the news of her death. ‘I lost my father at a young age to cancer, I will know first-hand the pain that her family must be feeling, but we also know that Dame Deborah was a huge inspiration to so many and raised millions to help others affected by cancer. ’Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner offered her condolences, saying: ‘Can I also share with the Deputy Prime Minister his deepest condolences and his personal experience, as we mourn the loss of Dame Deborah James, who fearlessly campaigned to inspire so many. ‘I’m absolutely sure there’s no doubt that she saved the lives of many more. ’During a visit to Great Ormond Street Hospital to announce his plan for digital health and social care, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Sajid Javid also paid tribute.
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