James Symond, the former CEO of Aussie Home Loans, is mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Amelia Symond, who passed away at the age of 45, just two days before Christmas. Amelia's death follows her courageous battle with stage four breast cancer, which she fought valiantly for several years.
The tragic news was announced by James on December 23, 2024, through a heartfelt social media post titled, 'Amelia Beau Finlay Symond, Rest in Paradise 23 December 2024.' His words reflected deep sorrow as he shared, "I searched throughout my life for my darling wife. The adoring mother of our five-year-old daughter, Stella Rose, and absolute love of my life. Little Stella and I are just devastated to lose you to heaven today."
Throughout their marriage, which began in March 2019, both James and Amelia faced devastating health challenges. James was diagnosed with multiple myeloma—a type of blood cancer—in December 2017 and had been undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy and daily dialysis, after undergoing a bone marrow transplant. He had previously expressed concerns about his condition, believing he would be the first to go due to the severity of his illness.
Yet, during this difficult period, James was not only coping with his medical battles but also the heartbreaking news of Amelia's breast cancer diagnosis. Amelia's health issues surfaced less than two years after James's diagnosis, compliciating their lives as both struggled against serious ailments. James noted, "Next thing I know, my wife’s actually very ill as well, so she has breast cancer, stage four breast cancer." Their shared fight against cancer bonded them, yet also tested their resilience as they navigated life-threatening illnesses simultaneously.
James, reflecting on the magnitude of their battles, shared insights during podcast episodes where he openly discussed their experiences and struggles. Despite being determined to stay strong for their daughter, Stella, the weight of grief was evident. "I'm terrified and broken and I just don't break," he confessed, showcasing the emotional toll of losing his partner.
James’s tribute speaks volumes about their life and love. He beautifully conveyed how impactful Amelia was to him, writing, "Honey, I am what I am today because of you, my golden ray of sunshine. God speed and till we meet again my gorgeous girl." This expression highlights not just his love for her but also the enduring impact she had on his life.
During her battle with cancer, Amelia sought various treatments, including alternative therapies, even traveling to Mexico for supposed non-traditional cures. Despite their desperate search for healing, her condition progressively worsened, leading up to James's poignant updates about her decline. Just days before her passing, he posted, "Merry Christmas… it's a bloody tough one for my immediate family this time around as my wife remains very, very ill… days," emphasizing not only their personal struggle but also reminding others of the cruel reality of cancer.
Friends and families reacted with shock and sorrow upon learning of Amelia's death, remembering her not just as James's wife but also as the loving mother of Stella Rose. James's dedication to keeping life normal for Stella amid such grief reflects the priorities of many parents who face adversity. He remarked how fortunate he was to have Stella, saying, "Thank you God for loaning us all your angel and then giving me another named Stella Rose."
Their beloved daughter, who will now grow up without her mother, became the focal point of their lives, providing hope and strength even during their darkest days. James's resilience to navigate through this painful experience is something many can relate to, especially with the emotional weight of finding balance when one's world feels shattered.
James Symond's heartfelt tribute not only captures the grief of losing Amelia but also shines light on the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. His statement resonates with many who understand the unpredictability of life and the heart-wrenching realities families face when dealing with illness.
Looking back on their lives, James and Amelia Symond faced the ultimate challenge together—a fight against cancer. James's reflections serve as both poignant memories of their shared love and as reminders for others to hold tight to their loved ones. "Cancer is simply terrible, keep your loved ones close as tomorrow is promised to no one," James shared, emphasizing the fragility of life.
Despite enduring multiple battles with health challenges, their story reflects enduring love, hope, and the relentless pursuit of making the best of every moment. James's heart-wrenching loss may resonate with many who have felt the impact of cancer and losing someone they love. For him, the loss of Amelia is devastating, but through his daughter, he hopes to keep her memory alive.
