Topics: Football, Health, Sport, Sex and Relationships, Wedding
A former Arsenal footballer has shared a heartbreaking tribute to his wife after she tragically died just three months after they got married.
Professional footballer and Derby County goalkeeper Josh Vickers tied the knot with his wife, Laura, back in June.
However, tragedy has since struck for the young couple after Laura passed away last week following a cancer battle.
Vickers, 27, took to Instagram on Sunday (24 September) to share a heartfelt statement about Laura to his followers.
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"I have written and unwritten this so many times and still can’t find the right words to say and don’t know if I ever will," the footballer began.
"On Tuesday evening my wife lost her long battle against cancer…."
Vickers went on to describe Laura as the 'strongest, bravest and most loving person', before adding: "Even though everything she was going through, she continued to smile, never letting anything get in the way of having a good time and making a lifetime of memories.
"We have cried, laughed and danced our way through some tough times."
Vickers went on to say he will 'cherish every moment' the pair spent together from the 'the first time' they met to the moment she 'peacefully passed'.
"I know that you will be looking down on me and continuing to inspire me every day," he added.
Concluding the heartfelt statement, Vickers penned: "Thank you to everyone that has supported myself and both families through this incredibly difficult time.
"Truly fortunate to have the most amazing family and friends!
"I Love You Always & Forever."
Since the tragic post was uploaded to Instagram, tributes have been pouring in for Laura and condolences offered to Vickers.
The goalkeeper was absent from Derby's fixture against Carlisle on Saturday (23 September) due to 'personal reasons', with his teammates holding up his 'Vickers 31' shirt during the game.
Many of his teammates commented under the post, including Jake Rooney who wrote: "All here for you mate ❤️🙏🏻."
While his former club Arsenal penned: "We’re all thinking of you, Josh."
Meanwhile, Michelle White, the photographer who captured the image Vickers uploaded as a tribute for Laura, said: "My heart is truly broken for you.
"I can’t imagine the heartache you’re feeling. Your beautiful wedding day, your wonderful wife and the love you both had for one another will forever be one that I’ll always remember."
She concluded: "Thank you for allowing me to capture the most special day, and as many memories we squeezed into that day! I am truly grateful I could do this for you.
"Sending you all the love and strength in the world. Rest well our beautiful girl."
