Television and radio presenter Red Symons made the tragic announcement last week that his eldest son Samuel, 27, had died of cancer after a life-long battle with the disease.
Releasing a statement to 3AW, the family said, “It is with the deepest sadness Red announces the passing of his beautiful son Samuel Symons. Samuel passed peacefully overnight surrounded by his family. We ask that you please respect the privacy of Red and his family at this very sad and difficult time.”
Samuel was just 4 years old when he was first diagnosed with a brain tumour. He was later diagnosed with secondary cancers, including thyroid cancer at age 11.
Earlier this year Red’s son was awarded Outstanding Achievement by a Young Volunteer at the Victorian Minister for Health Volunteer Awards for his advocacy for people living with cancer.
On Monday’s episode of Australian Story the radio host and his ex-wife Elly Symons paid tribute to their late son and revealed the harrowing journey following his early diagnosis with brain cancer.
The 69-year-old performer said learning that Samuel had a brain tumour was one of the worst moments of his life, though more was to come.
“It was the first, most awful moment of my life,” he said.
“I can remember calling my father in tears and saying, “He has to have brain surgery. He’s four years old”.”
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