Podcast host Dame Deborah James has thanked the Duke of Cambridge for "going above and beyond to make a very special memory" after he presented her with her damehood at her family home.
In a post on social media, the 40-year-old said: "I believe I may have had the most surreal, mind blowing, humbling 5 days of my life.
"I cannot thank you for your generosity at launching the @bowelbabefund which now stands at £5.7 million, and to the @dukeandduchessofcambridge for going above and beyond to make a very special memory happen yesterday.
"Can't quite believe im actually a Dame!
"My family are being amazing and as emotional as it all is, we are finding so much to smile about in the sadness. I may be getting weaker and more tired each tired having run off pure adrenaline, but my word, I always said I wanted to slide in sideways when my time is up, with a massive smile, no regrets and a big glass of champagne! Still my intention!!!"
Mother of two Deborah, who is receiving end of life care amid her battle with stage four bowel cancer, has raised a staggering £5.3 million for Cancer Research UK in just five days since posting a 'farewell' message on Instagram.
The 40-year old aimed to raise £250,000, but has smashed that total 20 times over in such a short space of time.
Dame Deborah told The Sun : "The Duke was so charming and put all of us at ease immediately. He was incredibly engaging and generous with his time, I could have spoken to him all afternoon.
"It was an honour to have him round and he’s welcome for tea and champagne any time. I got really emotional when I was presented with my honour. It’s a memory that my family and I will treasure forever."
Traditionally Damehoods and Knighthoods are announced on two occasions annually - the Queen’s Birthday Honours and New Years Honours.
However, special dispensation was given by Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace and Downing Street due to Deborah's grave circumstances, allowing her to become a Dame within a day.
Deborah went on to reveal details of her conversation with William, 39, which lasted for half an hour.
