Joe Thompson, a former Manchester United prospect, has tragically passed away at the young age of 36.
The midfielder, born in Bath, had been battling cancer for the third time since April of last year. He had retired from professional football in 2019.
He was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma, a form of blood cancer that had spread to his lungs.
Thompson had bravely fought off the disease twice before during his career as a player, which started and concluded at Rochdale.
He joined Manchester United`s academy at the age of nine and later moved to Rochdale, where he spent most of his 13-year career.
Manchester United expressed their condolences, stating: “A man who embodied our club`s values – we are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Joe Thompson.”
“A warm person who had a strong connection with our club from a young age, our thoughts are with Joe`s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Rochdale, Thompson`s beloved club, confirmed his death, announcing that he passed away peacefully at home with his family on Thursday.
The club also shared their “devastation” upon receiving the news in a heartfelt tribute.
They wrote: “Joe, who had been courageously fighting cancer for a third time, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, surrounded by his family.”
“Known affectionately as ‘Joey T’ by those in Rochdale, he made over 200 appearances for his local team, proudly representing the club.”
“Initially, we knew Joe as a talented footballer, but we quickly grew to admire his kind and infectious personality.”
The club added, “He faced every challenge head-on, both on and off the field.”
“His journey and unwavering spirit have been an inspiration to everyone touched by his story.”
“Above all, Joe was a devoted husband to Chantelle and a wonderful father to Thailula and Athena Rae.”
“Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends during this incredibly sad time.”
Thompson was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer, in 2013.
After a courageous battle and recovery, he returned to professional football, playing for Bury the following year.
Thompson later played for Wrexham, Southport, and Carlisle United before returning to Rochdale in 2016.
However, the cancer returned for a second time just months later.
What is Hodgkin lymphoma?
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that starts in white blood cells called lymphocytes.
It is relatively rare, with approximately 2,100 people diagnosed annually in the UK.
Hodgkin lymphoma can occur at any age but primarily affects individuals between 20 and 40 years old and those over 75. It is slightly more prevalent in men than women.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, in contrast, is diagnosed in 13,000 new patients each year and is more common with increasing age, with over a third of cases diagnosed in people over 75.
In Hodgkin lymphoma, B-lymphocytes (a specific type of lymphocyte) begin to multiply abnormally and accumulate in parts of the lymphatic system, such as lymph nodes (glands).
The affected lymphocytes lose their ability to fight infections, making individuals more susceptible to illness.
Like all cancers, symptoms vary and can be indistinct. However, patients often notice swelling in one or more lymph nodes.
This swelling can occur in any area of the body but is frequently in the neck, armpit, or groin.
The swelling is typically painless, although some people may experience aching.
Some individuals with Hodgkin lymphoma also experience other general symptoms, which can include:
- Night sweats
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fever
- Persistent cough or shortness of breath
- Persistent itching of the skin all over the body
Source: Cancer Research UK and the NHS.
Facing the disease with courage, Thompson found the strength to fight it off and returned to the field just nine months after his previous game.
He further cemented his place in Rochdale`s history by scoring a crucial goal as a substitute in the final match of the 2017/18 season.
His goal secured a 1-0 victory, ensuring Rochdale`s promotion to League One.
The star made one more appearance for the club before retiring in 2019.
After retiring from football, Thompson transitioned into public speaking.
Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester after his third diagnosis last year, he revealed that the “aggressive” lymphoma was already at stage four.
It had also spread to his lungs, causing breathing difficulties and sleep problems.
Although another diagnosis “hurt,” Thompson had vowed to fight it again and emerge victorious.
He stated: “It’s far from ideal, and it`s returned quite aggressively, at stage four.”
“The only positive is that it`s the same cancer I`ve had before, but the issue this time is that it has spread to my lungs, so breathing is a problem, sleeping is difficult, and even talking can sometimes be quite hard.”
“You only have a limited time on this earth. I always believe you should make the biggest impact you possibly can on as many lives as possible.”
“That’s my mindset, so I have to lead from the front. I’m going to need support, and I’m ready for everyone to step up, and we’ll get through it again, and then we`ll look to the future.”
He also created a GoFundMe campaign at the time to help with his treatment, which raised over £108,000.
Joe Thompson`s career stats
His full career numbers:
- Rochdale, 2005-2012: 157 games, 17 goals
- Tranmere Rovers, 2012-2014: 32 games, 4 goals
- Rochdale (loan), 2012-2013: 7 games, 0 goals
- Bury, 2014-2015: 4 games, 0 goals
- Wrexham (loan), 2014-2015: 1 game, 0 goals
- Southport (loan), 2014-2015: 4 games, 0 goals
- Carlisle United, 2015-2016: 17 games, 1 goal
- Rochdale, 2016-2019: 39 games, 4 goals
Thompson was born in Bath on March 5, 1989, and moved to Rochdale at a young age.
At just nine years old, he joined the Manchester United academy, staying there until he was 16.
In the summer of 2005, he joined Rochdale on a youth training scheme deal, making his first-team debut against Carlisle United the following May.
He became a regular for the team, playing a key role in Rochdale`s promotion to League One in 2010.
In 2012, his first stint at the club ended after 157 appearances and 17 goals.
Despite moving to Tranmere Rovers, he returned to Rochdale on loan that season, making seven appearances.
After spells at various other clubs, he consistently returned to Rochdale.
As a tribute, Rochdale`s first team will wear black armbands during today`s match at Altrincham.
Tributes are also planned for the club`s next home game against AFC Flyde on Easter Monday.
Rochdale added: “Joe’s legacy will live on forever – he’s one of our own.”
