Podcast host Deborah James has praised the Duke of Cambridge for “going above and beyond to create a very special memory” when he made her a dame in their family home.
That 40-year-old, known online as Bowel Babe, was honored for her “tireless campaign” to raise awareness about bowel cancer.
Dame Deborah posted pictures of William with himself and his family on Instagram and said the visit gave his family “a lot to smile at in grief”.
In a post on Instagram, she said: “I believe in what can be the most genuine, mind-blowing, humbling five days I’ve had in my life.
“I can’t thank you enough for your generosity in launching @bowelbabefund which is now £5.7 million, and thank you @dukeandduchessofcambridge for going above and beyond to make yesterday a very special memory. I’m really on a dame can not believe!
“My family is amazing and as emotional as it all is, we find so much to smile at in grief.
“I could get each tired and more exhausted, running off pure adrenaline, but my word, I always said, when my time is up, I want to slide sideways, with a big smile, No regrets and a great glass of champagne! Still my intention!!!”
Dame Deborah has raised over £5.7 million for Cancer Research UK through her Bowelbabe Fund on Just Giving.
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Having set his original target at £250,000, he has now increased to over 22 times his target.
Dame Deborah reached the £5 million milestone on Friday after more than 240,000 supporters, including William and his wife Kate, donated.
Its Just Giving page said it is “raising funds for clinical trials and research into personalized medicines for cancer patients and supporting campaigns to raise awareness about bowel cancer”.
She said she was “completely lost for words” after reaching the unprecedented amount.
TV presenter Lorraine Kelly reacted to the news, saying: “It’s just wonderful – tears and laughter – love you @bowelbabe.”
The presenter of the popular BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C revealed on Monday that she had moved into hospice-at-home care for her terminal bowel cancer treatment.
She wrote on Instagram: “Nobody knows how much time I have left, but I haven’t been able to walk, I’m sleeping most days, and most things I’ve assumed are pipe dreams.
“I know we have left no stone unturned. But even with all the new cancer drugs or some magical new breakthrough in the world, my body just can’t keep up. ,
Dame Deborah, a former headmaster, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2016 and has kept more than 500,000 Instagram followers up to date with her treatment.
On Thursday night, Number 10 confirmed that James was to be made a Dame, saying: “The Queen is pleased to accept that Deborah James will be given the honor of Damehood.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “If ever this massively deserved any respect, this is it.
From time to time, someone or the other captures the heart of the nation with their zest for life and strong desire to give back to the society. @bowelbabe He is one of those special people. Her tireless efforts to raise awareness about bowel cancer and end the stigma of treatment are inspiring. (1/2)
— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) 11 May 2022
“Deborah has been an inspiration and her honesty, warmth and courage have been a source of strength to so many.
“Through his tireless campaign and openly sharing his experience he has not only helped us in our fight against this terrible disease, he has ensured that countless others do not feel alone along with Big C.
“I hope this recognition from Her Majesty – supported by the entire nation I am sure – will provide some comfort to Deborah and her family during this difficult time.
“My thoughts are with her and Deborah should know she has the love and gratitude of the country.”
Thank you for an incredibly generous donation earlier today, and to every single person who has donated @BowelbabeFWe’ve just reached an incredible £5 million total. We are completely lost for words. Everything is beyond what we could have ever imagined. @CR_UK pic.twitter.com/zEgQbUna0O
— Deborah James (@bowelbabe) 13 May 2022
Damehood is usually conferred by members of the royal family, including William, at the adornment ceremonies at royal palaces, including Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.
In a personal tweet penned by William and Kate this week, they said: “Sometimes, someone captures the heart of the nation with their zest for life and strong desire to give back to society.
“@bowelbabe is one of those special people. Her tireless efforts to raise awareness about bowel cancer and end the stigma of treatment are inspiring.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of his recent update but happy to support @bowelbabef, which will benefit @royalmarsdenNHS among others.
“Deborah, our thoughts are with you, your family, and your friends. Thank you for giving hope to so many people who are living with cancer. Welcome.”