Former professional footballer Joe Thompson, who battled cancer for over a decade, has died at the age of 36. Despite his courageous fight against the disease, Thompson’s life was cut short by the illness.
Joe Thompson, a former professional footballer, has died at the age of 36 after a long battle with cancer.
Thompson, who played for Rochdale Football Club, was diagnosed with ‘Hodgkin lymphoma‘ in 2013 while playing for Tranmere.
Thompson’s journey with cancer began when he was just nine years old, having joined Manchester United’s academy.
He eventually made his way to Rochdale in 2005, where he spent several seasons playing and battling the illness.
In 2017, ‘I’m pleased to say I am now officially cancer-free,’ Thompson announced after a year of treatment.
However, his health soon took another turn for the worse.
In June 2022, Thompson was diagnosed with cancer for a third time, this time with stage four lymphoma that had spread to his lungs.
Despite the dire prognosis, ‘I’m still here,’ Thompson continued to fight on, inspiring many with his indomitable spirit and loving personality.
A Career Cut Short
Thompson’s love for football never wavered despite his health struggles.
He scored an impressive goal for Rochdale in 2018, helping the team avoid relegation from League One.
However, two years later, ‘I’ve had to take the decision to retire,’ Thompson announced his retirement due to the toll his illness had taken on his body.
Remembering a Footballer and Father
Thompson is remembered by his former club as a talented footballer with an infectious personality.
The Rochdale Football Club statement described him as ‘a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae.’
Thompson’s family and friends are said to be devastated by his passing, but his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched during his time on and off the pitch.
- theguardian.com | Joe Thompson, former Rochdale footballer, dies aged 36
