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Paul Jameson lived an ordinary life, rich with love, laughter, and simple joys. A man defined by his family, friends, and his beloved dogs, Hippo and Lola, Paul’s world was one of quiet happiness.
In June 2017, Paul was diagnosed with a rare and merciless form of motor neurone disease (MND). Doctors gave him a mere six months to live. His mind would remain intact, but his body would fail him. It was a nightmare – one that felt impossible to escape.
Amidst the darkness, Paul discovered a newfound resolve and lit a fire of purpose. He chose not to retreat into sorrow but to rise, determined to make his time left on earth meaningful.
Determined to turn his pain into purpose, Paul launched a heartfelt mission to help others. He broke a world record, playing the highest tennis match ever, not for fame, but to raise money for others battling motor neurone disease and help find a cure.
Paul didn’t stop here. Despite being robbed of his voice (and having never been able to sing in the first place!) Paul performed his own aria (a solo vocal piece within an opera) on BBC Breakfast, with the help of professional baritone Roderick Williams.
Prior to this, he was also given a British Empire Medal for his services to charity, in which he, along with the help of his loved ones, raised more than £150,000.
But even as he celebrated these victories, Paul’s heart weighed heavy with one deep, lingering fear.
He didn’t fear death—he feared what would happen to his family when he was gone. Would they struggle with unorganised affairs, be burdened with a costly, impersonal funeral, or leave things unsaid?
He knew he wanted to give them more— a lasting legacy, marking a farewell that honoured his spirited and joyful life.
Paul already had a will, but he wanted to leave something more.
He wanted to make sure everything was planned for this family. He wanted to say what needed to be said. He wanted his family to not waste money on a traditional funeral, and instead to celebrate his life the way that he lived it.
He wanted to leave behind a positive Aura.
Together with his son David, who shared the pain of witnessing Paul’s illness, and Ben, a friend who’d had his own brush with death, Paul birthed a vision.
They created Aura, a digital platform designed to plan and celebrate life beyond death. It wasn’t just about wills or funerals; it was about leaving behind a positive Aura—one that speaks of love, joy and a life well lived.
Despite the platform’s success, something was missing.
Paul couldn’t bear the thought of his family paying for a traditional funeral that didn’t reflect his life or relying on a corporate cremation provider.
He wanted something more personal, ensuring his body would be cared for locally.
Paul envisioned a send-off filled with joy—beer, BBQ, karaoke, dancing, and fireworks in his ashes—so he could go out with a bang, leaving behind a celebration that truly embodied his spirit.
Paul, David, and Ben brought together some of the most passionate and innovative minds in the funeral industry to create Aura Perfectly Simple Direct Cremations.
Their goal was to provide families with an affordable, personal alternative during their most challenging times. Since then, Aura has supported tens of thousands of families, focusing on genuine compassion and care.
“As someone who’s had a brush with my mortality, I know how important it is to feel like things are going to be taken care of when the time comes.
That’s why I promise you that with Aura, we’ll take the utmost pride and care in looking after you and your loved ones, now and in the future.”
Words by Paul Jameson, 2024.
If, like Paul, you are looking for support with making end-of-life arrangements, you have come to the right place.
Whether your loved one has recently passed away or is nearing the end of their time, or you are looking to put some plans in place for yourself, our dedicated and compassionate team are here to help.
To find out more about the services we offer, please click on one of the buttons below, or click here to request a copy of our funeral planning brochure.