Bowelbabe Fund

Our story

Please support the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK, raising money to fund clinical trials, research and cancer information and awareness, as well as other initiatives to combat cancer and support those affected by cancer. Dame Deborah James was a bright, brilliant and beautiful campaigner for people affected by cancer. She encouraged us all to always have rebellious hope – the determination to remain hopeful, even when it might seem like there is nothing to be hopeful for.   In December 2016, age 35, Deborah was diagnosed with incurable bowel cancer. Her first instinct was to shout from the rooftops about cancer, raising awareness and raising money for research. Whether wearing a poo emoji costume and laughing through the hard times, or dressed to impress dancing with her kids, she made so many feel less alone. In May 2022, Deborah announced that the time had come to stop treatment and receive palliative care at home with her family. However, defiant to the last, she was determined to still give one last, big F*** YOU to cancer. That’s why, together with her family, she set up the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK – to support causes she cared about and give more people more time with the people they love. The fundraiser smashed past its target of £250k in a single day, going on to raise over £10m including Gift Aid in its first six months – a staggering amount that shows just how many people’s lives Deborah lit up. We’re proud to be continuing Deborah’s legacy to bring hope for a better future for people affected by cancer. Thank you for being part of her journey.