Samuel Symons, 27, has passed away following a long battle with a recurrent aggressive brain tumour.
“It is with profound sadness that our family announces the passing of our son and brother Samuel Peter Symons,” Samuel’s mother, Vice President of the Australians for Reunification of Parthenon Sculptures Elly Symons told Neos Kosmos.
“The courage and strength he displayed over 23 years was simply inspirational.
“His dignified humility in the face of adversity was a lesson to us all. Rather than complain, he accepted his illnesses with humour, dignity and grace and continued to amaze us by achieving the unachievable. A shining example to us all.”
First diagnosed at the age of four, Samuel had battled cancer for the majority of his life. In 2017 he was diagnosed with another brain tumour for which he was receiving treatment until recently.
In a statement from 3AW on behalf of Samuel’s father, broadcaster Red Symons it was revealed Samuel “passed away peacefully overnight surrounded by his family”.
It was only a few months ago in June that Red told The Herald Sun that things were looking up for his son following further treatment for the tumour, but was still cautious.
“The simple truth is, and anyone who has cancer knows this, it never really goes away,” said Red.
Samuel was a recipient at Victoria’s Health Volunteer Awards earlier this year in recognition of his advocacy for cancer patients.
Paying tribute to Samuel’s work, Victoria’s Health Minister Jill Hennessy described him as “funny, kind, witty and smart”.
“Samuel Symons never once wavered in his determination to make the lives of fellow young Victorians with cancer just that little bit easier,” Ms Hennessy said in a statement.
“He was a dedicated and inspirational volunteer intent on helping others and an eternally courageous young man — a fitting recipient at Victoria’s health volunteer awards earlier this year.
“He’ll be deeply missed, and my heart goes out to his family and friends.”
