Adam “Simmo” Simpson joined in the last two Relays for Life at Don Lucas Reserve, Wanda, knowing his time was running out but wanting to help others.
More than 450 people attended Adam’s funeral last Thursday after his death from brain cancer, which he had battled for 14 years.
They wore black, white and blue and sang Up, Up Cronulla to celebrate his passion for the Sharks.
Adam’s parents Steve and Rhonda asked people to consider a donation to the Charlie Teo Foundation or another established organisation working for cancer research or supporting those living with it.
Rhonda, a nurse, was able to care for her son at home until the end. Steve is the deputy mayor of Sutherland Shire.
Adam, 40, who had been a state sales manager for an elevator company, learnt he had a brain tumour through an MRI after he was kicked in the head playing soccer.
Several doctors told him the growth was too deep and inoperable, but the family sought out Dr Charlie Teo, who performed the first of five operations.
“After each operation, Simmo became a little weaker,” his sister Michelle Long said in a written tribute.
“But this never dulled his will to live and enjoyment of life. No one ever heard him complain. Ever!
“When they were no longer able to operate, Simmo continued with radiation and chemo.
“On Fathers Day 2016, he lost the use of his right side and his ability to communicate was compromised, but he was fortunate to see his beloved Sharkies win the grand final.
“In 2017 I formed a team for the Relay for Life, called Cure for Brain Cancer #teamsimmo.
“Simmo never spoke about his disease, as he didn’t want to burden anyone with his problems .
“We actually thought he wouldn’t show up, but he rocked up at 6.30am to set up our site and walk. He walked and walked until he was so physically exhausted at 11pm he went home.
“We thought he wouldn’t be able to return on Sunday, but he was up before sunrise, caught the first train to Cronulla and walked the 2km from the station to Wanda, where he walked until the final lap at 10.30am. He completed a marathon in that 24 hours and received a medal.
“Our team raised over $7500 for the Cancer Council. He got blisters so bad he couldn’t walk for a week.
“In 2018, the tumour was back and it wasn’t good. We did the relay again in May. He couldn’t walk as far, but that didn’t stop him. He was there to help set up, and cheer us on. We raised over $16,200.
“As the year comes to a close so did our time with the most amazing human you could ever meet.
“His walking became worse, he lost his speech and appetite, but this didn’t stop him spoiling his nephews and niece, whom he loved more than life.
“He would sleep for over 20 hours a day, but somehow, no matter what, would always raise his hand to give them a high five.
“My brother touched so many lives, had so many mates. He would have hated the fuss, but would have loved the fact it makes people aware of this terrible disease.”
