Joe Thompson has sadly died after being diagnosed with cancer for a third time in April last year. This happened five years after he retired from professional football.
Stage Four Cancer Diagnosis Spread to His Lungs
Thompson was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma, a serious type of blood cancer. It had already spread to his lungs. He had beaten cancer twice before during his football career.
A Lifelong Connection with Rochdale
Born in Bath, Thompson both began and ended his football career with Rochdale. He had three separate spells with the club during his 13-year career.
Rochdale Shares Heartfelt Tribute
Rochdale announced the sad news and said Joe passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, surrounded by his family.
“We first knew Joe as a talented footballer, but we soon came to love his warm and positive personality,” the club shared.
“He faced every challenge bravely, both on and off the pitch. His life and strength have inspired everyone who followed his journey.”
“Joe was also a loving husband to Chantelle and a wonderful father to Thailula and Athena Rae. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this deeply sad time.”
His First Cancer Diagnosis Came in 2013
Thompson was first told he had Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 while playing for Tranmere Rovers. He got the all-clear a year later and returned to football.
He Came Back Strong After Second Diagnosis in 2017
In March 2017, during his third spell at Rochdale, Thompson was diagnosed with cancer again. He received treatment and returned to play during the 2017–2018 season after being told he was in full remission.
A Memorable Goal That Saved Rochdale
One of his most special moments came in 2018 when he scored the goal that helped Rochdale avoid relegation from League One. He described it as something that was “written in the stars, fate, destiny.”
Retirement After Over 200 Games
Joe Thompson retired from football in 2019 after making 203 appearances for Rochdale. He said he had “pushed his body to the absolute limit.”
From Manchester United Academy to Multiple Clubs
Joe started his football journey at Manchester United’s academy when he was just nine years old. He later joined Rochdale and also played for Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, Southport, and Bury.
Life After Football: Media, Mentoring, and Motivation
After retiring, Thompson worked as a media pundit. He also mentored young people and became a motivational speaker, sharing his story of strength and hope.
Raising Awareness Through a Fundraising Walk
In October 2024, after his third cancer diagnosis, Thompson joined a 21-mile walk to raise awareness about cancer treatments. Around 300 people took part in the walk from Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium to Rochdale’s Crown Oil Arena.
