Tom Parker’s widow Kelsey Hardwick says Deborah James was a ‘pillar of strength’ to The Wanted star who died in March
(Picture: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)Tom Parker’s widow Kelsey Hardwick has hailed Deborah James a “hero” and said she was a “pillar of strength” to The Wanted star prior to his death in March.
BBC podcast star James was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer in December 2016 and made the devastating announcement earlier this week that she is now receiving palliative care.
Mum-of-two James – who has shared her journey online under the moniker @bowelbabe – has since raised more than £2m for cancer charity.
Actress Hardwick – who also has two children – took to Instagram Stories to share a link to James’ charity fund and applaud her efforts.
"Sending love, light and strength to you, your family and babies,” she penned.
“Deborah, you are an earth angel. You’ve raised so much awareness and money, you’re a hero.”
Parker died at the age of 33 after battling an incurable brain tumour for 17 months.
Like James, he too used his illness to raise awareness in the media, with Hardwick describing them as being “members of a club that you didn’t want to be in”.
She continued: "Your courage is inspiring. You were a pillar of strength for my Tommy Boy, always there with advice. I know you were both members of a club that you didn’t want to be in. I wish we all could’ve met under different circumstances."
"Like Tom, you’ve never let cancer define you and what a legacy you’ve created,” the 32-year-old concluded.
