Former 'Biggest Loser' contestant Daniel Wright passes away at 30 after lengthy battle with leukemia
Daniel Wright, a former contestant on NBC's 'The Biggest Loser' who competed on the seventh and the eight seasons of the weight loss competition show, died on Sunday of leukemia. He was 30 years old.
The news was confirmed by fellow contestants on social media, following which tributes came pouring in on Wright's GoFundMe page, which was first published in December 2017.
The crowdfunding page stated that Wright was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in October 2017 and underwent chemotherapy and dozens of blood transfusions as a part of his treatment. His supporters were aiming to raise $50,000 for medical expenses.
Former castmate Courtney Crozier Respess took to Facebook to share her sadness. "I am so so heartbroken to hear about Daniel Wright this morning. He has fought so hard during his battle with cancer & more. This man is one of the kindest people I have ever met & is a true difference maker in this world! His faith has never faded, even in the darkest of times. I am honored to have known him!!!"
During the last few days before his demise, Wright's wife Rebecca posted several updates about his health condition on Facebook. She cited his struggle with blood clots, coughing up blood, persistent fever and infections.
Referring to Rebecca's strong will in her message on Facebook, Respess said, "Please keep him & his beautiful, amazing, and beyond strong wife Rebecca Wright in your prayers today as he is being called to heaven. Rebecca will need all of us to lift her up now & for the months & years to come."
Danny Cahill, winner of the eighth season of 'The Biggest Loser', also shared a message on his social media. "Yesterday the world lost a bit of its light," he wrote on Facebook. "Daniel Wright and I met for the first time in May of 2009 on the beach in Malibu. 15 of us went to the beach that morning to begin our journey on season 8 of The Biggest Loser. Our 16th contestant was driven up to the starting position of that first 1-mile race (which he won) and out popped Daniel. 'Hey guys!!!' He yelled as he jogged over to us. Little did I know the effect this man would have on my life."
Cahill added that Wright "never missed a chance to double back and encourage every soul in the fight of their lives to keep going, and ensure us we would make it."
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