DEBORAH James’s heartbreaking Instagram post tonight revealed: “Nobody knows how long I’ve got.”
Trending In The News’s columnist has been praised as an inspiration by fans after revealing she has moved into hospice at home care.
Deborah, known to fans as BowelBabe, was diagnosed with bowel cancer days before Christmas in 2016.
Her Instagram post read: “The message I never wanted to write. We have tried everything, but my body simply isn’t playing ball.
“My active care has stopped and I am now moved to hospice at home care, with my incredible family all around me and the focus is on making sure I’m not in pain and spending time with them.
“Nobody knows how long I’ve got left but I’m not unable to walk, I’m sleeping most of the days, and most things I took for granted are pipe dreams.
READ MORE ON DEBORAH JAMES
“I know we have left no stone unturned.
“But even with all the innovative cancer drugs in the world or some magic new breakthrough, my body just can’t continue anymore.
“In over five years of writing about how I thought it would be my final Christmas, how I wouldn’t see my 40th birthday nor see my kids go to secondary school – I never envisaged writing the one where I would actually say goodbye.
“I think it’s been the rebellious hope in me.
“But I don’t think anyone can say the last 6 months has exactly been kind!
“It’s all heartbreaking to be going through but I’m surrounded by so much love that if anything can help me through I hope that will.
Bowelbabe Fund
“I always knew there was one thing I always wanted to do before I died.
“I have always over the years raised as much awareness and money for the charities that are closest to me. @cr_uk @royalmarsden @bowelcanceruk
“As a result, the @bowelbabefund is being established and I’d love nothing more than for you to help it flourish.
“Please visit bowelbabe.org for all the info and to donate (link in Bio).
All I ask if you ever read a column, followed my Instagram, listened to the podcast or saw me dressed as a poo for no reason.
“Please buy me a drink to see me out this world, by donating the cost to @bowelbabefund which will enable us to raise funds for further life saving research into cancer. To give more Deborah’s more time!
“Right now for me it’s all about taking it a day at a time, step by step and being grateful for another sunrise.
“My whole family are around me and we will dance through this together, sunbathing and laughing (I’ll cry!!) at every possible moment!
“You are all incredible, thank you for playing your part in my journey. No regrets.
“Enjoy life x
Deborah”
Read More on Trending In The News
BBC presenter Victoria Derbyshire responded: “Deborah. You are honest, gracious, feisty and incredible. You are helping (and have helped) so many people by raising awareness of bowel cancer.
“You are an absolute legend. And that’s why there are so many people who love you.”
