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11 Jun 2024, 09:14
Credit: Wildlife Aid
Beloved Conservationist and Wildlife Advocate Leaves Legacy of Compassion and Dedication
The animal kingdom has lost one of its fiercest protectors. Simon Cowell, the cherished presenter of Wildlife SOS and a passionate conservationist, has passed away at the age of 72 after valiantly battling cancer.
The sad news was confirmed by the Wildlife Aid Foundation, the charity he founded, in a heartfelt statement on Monday afternoon.
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"It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Simon Cowell MBE, conservationist, founder and CEO of the Wildlife Aid Foundation and presenter of Wildlife SOS," the statement read.
It continued: "Simon passed away peacefully on Sunday (June 9), surrounded by his daughters, his partner, and his dogs, after a brave battle with cancer."
Simon Cowell was not just a TV personality; he was a beacon of hope for countless animals and a tireless advocate for wildlife protection.
The foundation added: "Simon was one of the UK’s most respected conservationists and a passionate advocate for wildlife protection and environmental causes.
"He dedicated his life to British wildlife and worked tirelessly to ensure countless injured and orphaned animals were given a second chance in the wild through rescue, clinical treatment, and rehabilitation.
“He campaigned relentlessly to raise awareness of the plight of wildlife and the importance of all species.”
Cowell’s journey into the world of wildlife conservation began in the early 1980s as a hobby.
At the time, he was a broker in London seeking a distraction from his stressful job. What started as rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife in his home and garden soon became a lifelong mission.
By 1987, this passion had transformed into the Wildlife Aid Foundation, a charity that has since touched the lives of many animals and humans alike.
Through his work, Cowell became a beloved figure on television. He created and presented the television series Wildlife SOS for Channel 5 and also graced Animal Planet on Discovery in the 1990s.
His engaging presence and genuine love for animals captured the hearts of viewers, spreading awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation far and wide.
In recognition of his tireless efforts, Cowell was made an MBE in 2005 for services to wildlife.
He frequently appeared in the media, passionately discussing environmental matters and championing conservationism.
His voice became a powerful tool for change, inspiring many to take action in protecting our planet’s precious creatures.
Last year, Cowell bravely shared his terminal lung cancer diagnosis through his charity, launching an appeal called Simon’s Last Wish.
The goal was to build a new wildlife centre for the Wildlife Aid Foundation, featuring habitats such as wetlands and woodlands, viewing platforms, a visitor’s centre, and a new wildlife hospital.
The appeal has since raised more than £650,000, a testament to the love and respect he garnered throughout his life.
As we bid farewell to Simon Cowell, we remember a man whose heart was as vast as the wilderness he worked so hard to protect.
His legacy will continue through the countless animals he saved and the ongoing efforts of the Wildlife Aid Foundation.
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