Shortly before her death, the late Dame Deborah James talked about her final wish to pass away at her parents' home in order to save her children from additional anguish.
She explained her plans for moving out of her central London home and into her parents' bungalow in Woking during her final appearance on her BBC podcast, 'You Me and the Big C'.
“It's kind of where I've always wanted to die, weirdly," she said. "I've always had that in mind. I think I always knew I didn't want to be at my London home. It doesn't feel right to me."
Deborah explained how she didn’t want to give her kids negative memories of their family home in London and said that she wouldn't be able to relax there.
“There's nothing I can describe that feels relaxing in that capacity. Don't get me wrong, it's a lovely place but I also think it's not right for me but it means the kids can go back there and they don't have those medical equipment scars faced everywhere,” she shared.
“It can continue to be their home without those memories, which might be a good thing.”
Deborah died on June 28 after a five-year battle with bowel cancer.
In a statement announcing her death, her family said: "We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy. Deborah passed away peacefully today, surrounded by her family.
"Deborah, who many of you will know as Bowelbabe, was an inspiration and we are incredibly proud of her and her work and commitment to charitable campaigning, fundraising and her endless efforts to raise awareness of cancer that touched so many lives.
"Deborah shared her experience with the world to raise awareness, break down barriers, challenge taboos and change the conversation around cancer. Even in her most challenging moments, her determination to raise money and awareness was inspiring.
"We thank you for giving us time in private as a family, and we look forward to continuing Deborah’s legacy long into the future through the @bowelbabefund. Thank you for playing your part in her journey, you are all incredible."
Dame Deborah announced in early May 2022 that she was receiving end-of-life care at home.
“The tweet I never wanted to write,” she said on Twitter.
“The time has come to say goodbye. 5 years to prepare, doesn’t make it any easy.”
After making the announcement, she set up the Bowelbabe Fund, which raised more than £6 million – over 24 times her original target of £250,000.
For her efforts, she was made a Dame, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson saying: “If ever an honour was richly deserved, this is it.”
