In Memorium

This page has been dedicated to one of the Forum's founding members, Jim Smith, who sadly is no longer with us. The tributes collected here are reproduced by consent, and will grow as more people become aware of it's existence. It is only fitting we should remember and honour him in any way we can.


For Jim Smith: friend, ally and gentleman...

I have seen this illness take the lives of many of those I have loved, and with each passing it gets no easier. Jim may be gone now, but he will not be forgotten - there are too many things about him that we will always hold dear.

Jim worked tirelessly and selflessly, always putting others before himself. Whether as advocate, carer or just a shoulder to cry on, Jim seemed to always be there, his kindness and endless generosity was always there for us in our moments of weakness or despair. All the good work he did with the Patients' Forum, his voluntary work with St Stephens Volunteers and with the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, at The Riverhouse, and of course with all of us - his legacy will go on and on. He will always be remembered - and we will always remember him.

I have found great solace in seeing the notes of sympathy coming in, from many people I know and many that I don't. We all share one amazing thing in common - Jim Smith touched all our lives - and while we will all miss him terribly, his passing has brought us all together, and we are all the stronger for it.

Jim Smith was, quite simply, one of the kindest and most sincere men I have ever known, and rarely have I had the privilege to know and work with someone such as he; but the one thing I thank him for the most, is that he was, and will always remain to be, my friend.

In solidarity, and with love,

Christian Decle.
KVN & Frontline HIV Forum Chair 2006-2009

I am in deep shock... Jim was such an inspiration, good friend and a kind man. I have spend good moments with him, not only in the Forum meetings but outside on the day to day life. He was always there for us when we need a chat and so keen to help at difficult moments, always with positive views and great support for our cause. I have been away from the Forum meetings for a while but I use to see him from time to time. He was a pillar of strength and somehow one of our figure leaders, with such a charismatic personality and good nature. I am thinking of him...

Cristina.

I am so very sorry and feel quite shocked and devastated. He was a lovely, lovely man and someone I very much looked up to. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to get to know him. His passing feels symbolic of something which I can't quite articulate.

Gareth.

What a real shame. I often saw Jim at the hospital, he was always so friendly and always knew so much about "stuff" and was able to share this. I know he did a lot for the forum. My prayers are there for him and for all of us.

Nick.

This is very very sad.....I am lost for words. After 26 years , our community is still painfully dealing with the loss of close friends. Jim will be remembered for his kindness, energy and humour.

Christophe.

Jim was a unique and special man who I will miss intensely. I hope I can learn to live with such grace and compassion.

David.