A cursory glance at Facebook brought the desperately sad news that our former midfielder Claudio Reyna’s son, just 13, has died after a two-year battle with cancer.
Every Sunderland supporter, indeed very decent person, will be left feeling truly sorry for the Reyna family. The loss of a child is one of the worst things that can happen to any parent.
This is how the US Soccer site reports the tragedy:
US Soccer was extremely saddened to learn that Claudio Reyna’s 13-year-old son Jack passed away on Thursday after a long battle with cancer.
Below is a statement from the Reyna family:
‘It is with a heavy heart that we confirm that Jack Reyna lost his battle with cancer today. Jack was so courageous during his two-year fight that he’s become a hero and inspiration to many. Surrounded by his entire family, Jack passed peacefully at the age of 13.
In lieu of flowers, all of those wishing to show support for the family can make a donation to the Claudio Reyna Foundation on Jack’s behalf. Thanks to all for the outpouring of support, prayers, and well wishes. Rest in Peace Jack Reyna. You were loved by many and your legacy will carry on.’
The entire US Soccer family would like to pass on their condolences to the Reynas during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with Claudio, his wife, Danielle, and their entire family as they cope with their loss. During this emotional time, we ask that everyone please respect their privacy.
For donations to Claudio Reyna’s Foundation on Jack’s behalf, please visit http://claudioreynafoundation.org/claudio-reyna-donate.html.
Claudio, now the USSF’s youth soccer technical director, is fondly remembered by many SAFC supporters. Salut! Sunderland associates itself with all the above thoughts and will make a small donation to the foundation.
I completely agree with Jeremy’s sentiments. What an awful thing to happen to a family. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones, Claudio. Be strong. And know people have you in their hearts.
Seconded Goldy. Their grief will be unimaginable. I too rated Claudio Reyna very highly but in the grand scheme of things it doesn’t matter if he was a good or indifferent player really. This is a man who has lost his son to one of the cruellest diseases affecting human kind. It’s so very, very sad. Particularly poignant to me at the moment as a close friend, the same age as me has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. I feel that she has been cheated of time. Imagine how it must feel to lose your teenage boy. It would be the end for me, and that’s the truth.
My thoughts are with Claudio and his family. Rest in peace young Jack. Rest in peace son.
I loved Claudio Reyna, ridiculously unappreciated.
Awful news; this was reported as Claudio Ranieri earlier today. Not that this would have been any less tragic, just always hits you a bit more when its a player you admired so much.
Best wishes go out.