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I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Simon Boas. Until a few months ago, Simon would most likely be known to people of Jersey and indeed further afield for his passionate work for Jersey Overseas Aid.
In the last few months, however, he has become known internationally for the way in which he has approached the illness that he suffered from and his eventual death.
Through his writings and indeed through his interviews and in personal conversations he has shared an attitude of joy, optimism and positivity that many of us would struggle to emulate in the face of such an unforgiving prognosis.
Simon clearly exemplified the stoic approach to life of loving one’s fate, amor fati, and of facing with calm and equanimity that ending of life which we all, one day, will face. His was a philosophy of courage and optimism which we may all admire.
It was for me a privilege to have met Simon and I know that his life and indeed his death have touched many, many thousands of people beyond these shores.
Our thoughts, of course, at this time are not with Simon who approached the end with optimism and perhaps even joy, but with those who were dear to them, and he to them, that he had left behind – his wife Aurelie and his parents and of course others.
I personally shall look forward to reading Simon’s book when it is published and will remember with gratitude my brief friendship with an exceptional person.
The Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq
Jersey Overseas Aid Director who inspired hundreds of thousands passes away
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