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Who was Chris Wesseling? NFL writer dies after long battle with cancer, Internet mourns: ‘We've lost a friend'

Chris Wesseling was a writer for 'Around the NFL', where he gave non-stop analysis and opinions on all things football. His wife shared a lengthy post about his demise on February 6

Chris Wesseling, who was associated with the NFL as a writer and a senior editor, died on Friday, February 5, after losing a long battle with cancer. Chris’ wife Lakisha shared the devastating news on Saturday, February 6, on her official Instagram account.

She shared a lengthy post where she spoke about how Chris was no longer suffering which brought her some comfort, but her heart was in much pain. Lakisha posted a picture of her late husband with their toddler named Linc in what appears to be from a hospital where he was battling his cancer. She also posted a short video in the next slide where we could see Chris bonding with his baby in the most adorable way.

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Chris Wesseling’s wife bids him farewell

In her Instagram post, she stated, "2/5/2021: Linc gained the best guardian angel. Chris passed away peacefully yesterday afternoon. I was by his side, holding his hand. Knowing that he’s no longer suffering brings me some comfort, but my heart hurts so much."

"I took him to the hospital on the 19th thinking he’d be admitted for a few days like before... not knowing that would be the last time he’d be home. His cancer had spread to his lungs and other areas. I just don’t understand. I’m stuck in a place between denial and anger," she continued.

She added, "Why take such a kind, loving soul? Why? Chris made an everlasting impression on anyone he met, even in his final days. One nurse gave me a letter to give to Linc the day after I took him in to see Chris. I read it last night and it’s one of the most beautiful letters written by a random person that wanted Linc to know what kind of man his father was coming from a complete stranger."

Lakisha concluded, "I know Chris is in heaven looking down on us. I’m going to do my best to raise Linc how I know he would want. I see Chris every time I look at Linc’s face. I am so grateful I get to keep a part of him with me. #f**kcancer."

Who was Chris Wesseling?

According to the official website of the NFL, Chris Wesseling was a writer for 'Around the NFL' where he gave non-stop analysis and opinions on all things football. The website also reports that “Wesseling spent his formative years immersed in NFL history books while dispensing invaluable fantasy football advice.” He is best known for his coverage on the league for six seasons as a writer for NBCSports.com and a senior NFL editor at Rotoworld.com before he joined NFL Media in 2013.

 A GoFundMe page was also set up for Chris while he was battling with the deadly disease. According to the website GlobIntel, his GoFundMe page read, “NFL writer, husband, father and friend to many, has had a relapse and cancer is trying yet again to have its way."

"While we know Chris and his ace cornerman Lakisha (and Lincoln, their newborn son) will beat this – AGAIN – the last thing they need is to worry about bills. While we can’t solve everything, let’s do what we can to help them out.  Let’s make sure they know WE HAVE THEIR BACK.”

Tributes pour in for NFL veteran

The moment the news of Chris Wesseling passing away surfaced on the Internet, it became evident how loved and respected he was as a lot of heartfelt tributes poured in on social media. People from NFL and his fans took to Twitter to express their condolences. One said, “There are no words. Chris— awesome guy husband and dad. Football smarts second to none. And so incredibly kind. My heart breaks for you L.”

Another stated, “I knew @ChrisWesseling during our years together at the NFL. He was one of my favorite people there ... I’d always greet him “Wesseling!” He was a warrior through this whole ordeal, and I’ll miss him. God bless @LakishaJackson and little Linc. Godspeed brother. #RIPChris”

One user posted, “Just another fan of Chris and the ATN, but wanted to pass on my condolences. I don't have the words to do Chris justice, but in years of listening he made such a connection with the audience. The episode you guys announced you were expecting baby Linc had me in happy tears.” One shared, “My heart breaks for you Lakisha. Chris has had such a positive impact on so many lives right across the world, what an amazing guy.  My thoughts with you and Linc.”

Another added, “Heartbroken to hear of the passing of @ChrisWesseling he was such a good egg. The beauty of the show he and the guys put out is that it could just be mates sat around the pub table, drinking a beer and chewing that fat. That's why this one hurts. It's like we've all lost a friend.”