A FORMER head boy at Hautlieu who went on to inspire millions during an “amazing life” as a best-selling science author after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in his 20s has died.
Doctor Stuart Farrimond, also known as “Dr Stu”, died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 43 at a hospice in the UK surrounded by friends and family after battling a long illness, his family announced.
Dr Farrimond moved to Jersey with his family from Wiltshire and was head boy at Hautlieu in 1999, with the Farrimonds spending six years in the Island.
He leaves behind a legacy as a science and medical writer, presenter and educator with his family saying this would live on in his blog and best-selling “The Science Of” book series.
In a statement, his family said: “Stu’s passion for making science accessible, and the experiences he openly shared as a brain tumour researcher and cancer survivor, inspired many. He will be deeply missed.”
Stu’s passion for making science accessible, and the experiences he openly shared as a brain tumour researcher and cancer survivor, inspired many
family statement
When Dr Farrimond was just 25 and working as a hospital doctor, a hormone test led to the discovery of a grade-two astrocytoma, a type of brain tumour.
Despite the diagnosis meaning he had to give up his medical career, “he never stopped healing, educating and inspiring others”, according to Brain Tumour Research.
The charity said: “He retrained as a teacher, became a best-selling science author, and reached millions through his engaging TV and radio appearances.”
Dr Farrimond’s mother Maree said: “Jersey was the making of him.
“We cannot say thank you enough for how wonderfully he was educated.”
Mrs Farrimond said that her son “seized opportunities” as soon as he came to the Island, which she described as a “wonderful place”, and “went for everything and tried everything”.
“We are just so proud of him,” she said.
Mrs Farrimond said her son had an “amazing life”.
If there were lessons to be learned from her son’s life, Mrs Farrimond said she hoped it would “give people hope” and encourage them to “seize the day”.
“You are not defined by it,” she said of the condition her son had.
Brain Tumour Research said it was “heartbroken” to share the news that its “supporter and friend” had passed away.
The national charity said: “He was a passionate advocate for brain tumour research, working with The International Brain Tumour Alliance and helping to bring clarity and hope to so many through his writing and outreach.
“We are so grateful for everything he did to raise awareness of this cruel disease and fight for better outcomes for those affected.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his loved ones.”
Posts announcing Dr Farrimond’s death on social media were quickly flooded with tributes from those who remembered the “brilliant” doctor.
