Rochdale AFC footballer Joe Thompson's cancer has returned

Joe Thompson

Rochdale AFC footballer Joe Thompson has revealed that his cancer has returned.

Joe, who was born in Rochdale, was diagnosed with nodular sclerosing Hodgkin’s in November 2013 but after treatment was given the all clear in June 2014.

He raised money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research since his diagnosis through his Grow4Joe campaign.

The 27-year-old former pupil at St Vincent’s Primary School in Norden and St Cuthbert’s High School, spent six years at Rochdale Football Club in the first team before moving to Tranmere Rovers in 2012. He returned to Dale in August 2016 and signed an extension to his contract, which was due to expire in January, until the summer of 2018.

Joe said: "It is with regret that I have to inform you that my cancer has returned.

"That given I will fight this life hurdle with the same belief, courage and desire as my previous battle.

"The support shown to me since I discovered my illness has returned has been immense.

"I would like to thank my wife, Chantelle, who was my rock in my first encounter and will once again be by my side with the same encouragement, discipline and strength. Not to mention the love shown to me by both my wife and beautiful daughter Thailula-Lily who are both my motivations daily.

"I would also like to thank the Manager and his Staff, there are no words to describe this group of people. They gave me an opportunity at the beginning of the season and I hope I have repaid their faith in me with what some say is the best form of my career. Also, to my teammates, this unique group of Players who all believe in each other and keep on over achieving. 

"To the Board and the fans of my hometown Club which I am so honoured to have returned to and so proud to wear the shirt of, thank you for the warmth and support you shown me upon my return and continue to do so.

"A big thank you to my Union too, the PFA, especially John Bramhall. Their support commenced within hours of my diagnosis and me and my family are extremely grateful.

"I came back from a goal down before, not only to equalise, but to take the lead. This illness may have found an equaliser but the quest for me to get the winner starts today and I can assure you I will get the most important win of all time.

"Thank you to you all."

Rochdale AFC Chairman Chris Dunphy said: " Everyone at Rochdale Football Club is greatly saddened by this devastating news.

"Joe is part of Team Rochdale and friend to all of us, and our thoughts are with him and his family.

"We will support Joe through this difficult time and will be with him every step of the way.

"He has the full support of everyone at the club and we will do everything we can to help him beat this horrible disease for a second time.

"We know he’s a fighter and I’ve no doubt he’ll fight this with the same bravery and courage as he did last time.

"We wish him a full and speedy recovery."