Australian Story tribute to Samuel Symons

Australian Story will repeat its 2010 episode profiling the late Samuel Symons, son of Red & Ellie Symons.

Samuel tragically passed away aged 27 yesterday following a long battle with brain cancer, diagnosed when he was just aged 4.

Samuel has been praised by many for the dignity with which he faced such adversity.

Australian Story profiled Samuel and family when he was just 18 years old.

Here is the original synopsis:

Red Symons might be the funny ‘bad guy’ of radio and television, but appearances are deceptive. Together with his wife, Elly, his family have been on a journey with their eldest son Samuel that no one would wish for. It is one they have kept out of the public spotlight until now. At 18 years of age, Samuel breaks that silence on his own terms on Australian Story.

Imagine that your four‐year old son is diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour and is not expected to live.

If he has radiation therapy at such a young age, his growth and mental capacity may be stunted.
If you do nothing, he will almost certainly die.

This is the choice Red and Elly faced soon after their son Samuel came home from kindergarten with a headache.

For most people, celebrating your 18th birthday and passing Year 12 exams are rites of passage.
For Samuel, they represent inspirational and life‐affirming achievements for his family and wide‐circle of friends.

Samuel has faced his situation with equanimity, a wonderful sense of humour and has grown into a young man wise beyond his years.

This is Samuel’s Story.

8pm Monday on ABC.