Joe Thompson: Former footballer helped so many individuals earlier than dying

Former Rochdale footballer Joe Thompson's household stated that he was “overwhelmed” with hundreds of messages after his dying to these whose life was touched.

Thompson, 36, who was detected thrice in 12 years, died on 17 April after spreading to the lungs.

He had recovered from the illness twice throughout his sport profession, a type of blood most cancers.

His spouse Chantale stated that he and his 12 -year -old daughter Thailula had spent as a lot time as attainable with him to prioritize “making memories”.

Together they advised BBC Radio Manchester Thompson's battle with the illness introduced him nearer as a household over time, and “saw life differently”.

Thilula stated: “You think 'Oh shoot, life is small', you have to spend as much time we can do together.

“If Dad was not identified with most cancers, maybe it didn’t deliver us as a household as he did.”

Midfielder, originally from Bath, started his football career with Rochedale after coming through the academy system of Manchester United.

He finished his career in Rochedale after a third term five years before his death, which was also played for Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, Southport and Bari.

Chantelle said that the public response to his death was “unimaginable”, within and beyond the world of football.

“I believe it actually helps, particularly in these first few days,” she said.

“Just read the small stories and small memories of the people that they have and even from reaching out and telling the stories of those things that we did not know, how they helped and how they supported the people.

“When I say tons of, I imply hundreds of messages, a lot of them are speaking about how they by some means helped him.

“It is quite heavy to think how many people he has touched in a short period.”

Thilula stated how her father at all times tried to assist different folks, and stated “he had impressed so many people in that short time”.

He stated: “I think he had a short life, but affects more people than long life and impresses fewer people who make sense.

“I’m very pleased with him.”

After hanging his shoes, Thompson worked as a pundit in the media and also mentioned as a motivational speaker.

In October 2024, after his third diagnosis, he participated in a 21-mile-ravaging walk to raise awareness about the treatment of cancer.

About 300 people participated in the journey from the Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester United to Crown Oil Arena Ground in Ruchdel.

Chantale revealed that Thompson had “stored magazines full” about the work of charity and plans for the future.

He said, “We have gotten pages and pages stuffed together with his ideas, their needs fulfill their issues, which she needed to satisfy.”

“We wish to proceed and carry his legacy.”