'I'm as happy as I've been in my life,' says aid worker Simon Boas as he faces death
Simon Boas, at 46, was diagnosed with terminal throat cancer in September 2023. Despite the grim prognosis, he spent the following year compiling his reflections into a book, "A Beginner's Guide to Dying," which will be published posthumously in October.
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In a poignant interview with Emma Barnett on the Today Programme, Simon shared his thoughts as he transitioned to hospice care. He expressed an unexpected sense of happiness, attributing it to the acceptance and preparation time his diagnosis allowed. "My pain is under control, and I'm terribly happy," he said, highlighting the value of facing death with awareness.
Simon emphasized that his life experiences, particularly his career as an aid worker in conflict zones like Gaza, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Ukraine, helped him view death as an integral part of life. He also mentioned his volunteer work as a Samaritan, which exposed him to the reality of death and shaped his perspective.
He stressed the importance of enjoying life fully and recognizing the impact of our actions, even if they go unremembered. Citing a quote from George Eliot's "Middlemarch," Simon underscored the significance of seemingly small, unhistorical acts in shaping the world.
Simon's reflections are deeply rooted in the idea that every individual makes a difference. He encouraged people to realize their potential to create positive change, no matter how small their actions might seem.
Despite the physical limitations imposed by his illness, Simon found solace in simple pleasures, like enjoying Muscadet and spending time with his family. He expressed a sense of curiosity and readiness for his final day, drawing comfort from the words of Julian of Norwich: "All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well."
Through his words, Simon Boas leaves a legacy of acceptance, resilience, and the enduring impact of a life well-lived.
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