Susanna Reid was emotional on Wednesday's instalment of Good Morning Britain as she paid tribute to Dame Deborah James, who has died at the age of 40 following a five-year battle with cancer.
The brave mum-of-two, who raised over a staggering £6.5 million with her Bowelbabe fundraiser, was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer just before Christmas 2016, aged 35. Her family announced she had passed away with a statement on Tuesday, June 28.
Opening GMB, Susanna described the You Me And The Big C podcaster as "absolutely remarkable" as she sent love to Deborah's husband, parents and children.
Read more: Dame Deborah James tributes pour in after cancer podcaster dies
She said: "Even if you'd never met her, I think everyone felt like they knew Dame Deborah James, who has sadly passed away way too early at the age of 40. A five-year battle, of course, with cancer.
"She was an absolutely remarkable woman, who fought right to the end to raise awareness of the condition." Susanna continued: "Our hearts go out to her children… and her husband Sebastian, and her parents."
ITV's health editor Dr Hilary Jones also paid tribute and said Deborah had a "zest for life" and always put others before herself. He said: "She was determined not to let this cancer destroy her.
"She was always putting other people before herself, family first, but also she wanted to campaign to raise awareness of the symptoms to make it clear to people that this wasn’t just a disease for older people."
Dame Deborah's death was announced with a statement on social media alongside a beautiful video of her dancing on a balcony during a stunning sunset.
It read: "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.
"And a few final things from Deborah…'find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope. And finally, check your poo – it could just save your life.' x"
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