Rio Ferdinand's wife Rebecca has died at a
hospital in London after a short battle with
cancer.
The QPR defender confirmed news of his wife's
passing at Royal Marsden Hospital in a
statement on the club's official website on
Saturday.
It read: "My soul mate slipped away last night.
Rebecca, my wonderful wife, passed away
peacefully after a short battle with cancer at the
Royal Marsden Hospital in London. She was a
fantastic loving mother to our three beautiful
children. She will be missed as a wife, sister,
aunt, daughter and granddaughter. She will live
on in our memory, as a guide and inspiration.
"Myself, my parents Janice and Julian, along
with Rebecca's parents Lesley and Stephen,
would like to thank our families, friends and my
club colleagues who have rallied around in these
desperate days, weeks and months.
"I would also like to express my gratitude for the
dedication and expertise of the staff led by
Professors Johnstone and Clarke at the Royal
Marsden. Their valiant efforts to prolong
Rebecca's all-too-short life will not be
forgotten.
"Our grief, as a family, is total. We would
appreciate being allowed to mourn privately."
QPR added: "The thoughts of everyone at
Queens Park Rangers Football Club are with Rio
and his family at this immensely difficult time."

condolences from me and all Chelsea fans to our friend and former rival. may the lord give you the strength to pass through this.