The Executive Director of Jersey Overseas Aid is currently at Jersey Hospice surrounded by his friends and family including his wife, Aurelie.
A statement written by Mr Boas’s JOA colleagues said that the letter conveyed how moved His Majesty had been to hear of the islander’s exceptional charitable service and courageous approach to illness.
Pictured: Simon Boas, director of the Jersey Overseas Aid Commission. (Dave Ferguson)
Mr Boas was diagnosed with throat cancer last year and has since written about his prognosis and the many reasons not to feel gloomy about it.
These reflections have now been woven into a book offering a unique perspective on life and death which is due to be published this autumn.
Money generated through book sales will be given to palliative-care charities, particularly those focusing on children and developing countries.
Mr Boas was recently honoured with the Bailiff’s Silver Seal for his contribution to the community and his ability to “offer support and comfort to those in need”.