It is with deep regret that I have to inform Soul Source members of the passing of Soulcast's Jim Demetriou. Jim, who ran and broadcast his online soul shows for a number of years, passed away today, Wednesday 19th September 2007, around 6:30pm.
Jim had been battling against cancer for so many years. At the beginning of this year, with his condition worsening, and with hopes pinned on the advances in medical science, he underwent a stem cell transplant. This, it was hoped, would send his cancer into remission.
It was a risky and traumatic process, but one he could not avoid. However, the process was perhaps even more taxing than even Jim had expected and over the months he grew weaker. The last few weeks his condition deteriorated and he had to go back into hospital.
I don't know any real details as yet, I received a phone call from his brother Chris, this evening and, well, couldn't quite take it all in.
Beyond Soulcast, Jim was, with out a doubt, an exceptional man. He never had an axe to grind, didn't have a bad word to say about anyone and, even through his illness, always had an optimistic view of the world. Spiritually honest and with a great force of integrity, he believed that the world was intrinsically good and was there to be enjoyed. He was one of the life's few genuine nice guys.
Having been fortunate to have had him as a best friend for just over 20 years, I will miss him - I already do and I know that so many others will too.
If as and when I have any more information I'll post it. Likewise, if others have more than my sketchy details to offer, please do so.
Russell Gilbert