Ryan Reynolds: A Compassionate Message After a Devastating Tragedy Hits Close to Home
Offering Support to Wrexham Captain Ben Tozer
Ryan Reynolds, co-owner of Wrexham AFC, recently reached out to express his condolences to captain Ben Tozer following a heart-wrenching family tragedy. The soccer player shared the heartbreaking news of his father’s untimely passing, just two days after being diagnosed with leukemia.
In a heartfelt social media post, Ben revealed that his father, Keith, had been diagnosed on Saturday and underwent successful brain surgery on Sunday. Shockingly, he passed away on Monday at the age of 59.
“On Saturday, I was told my Dad has Leukemia, but it’s treatable,” the 33-year-old tweeted, adding, “Don’t leave it too late!” Reflecting on the last few days, Ben expressed, “On Sunday night, he needed brain surgery, which went well, then last night, the unthinkable happened.”
Ben also revealed that his father had been concealing excruciating pain and was fearful of seeking medical help. “We used to tell him ‘go and get checked,’ all the time,” Ben shared. “He was simply terrified of what it could be. Thank you very much, Dad. Our final words together will be with me for the rest of my life. I love you. I hope we all made you proud.”
Upon seeing Ben’s devastating news, Wrexham Football Club, co-owned by Ryan Reynolds and actor Rob McElhenney, retweeted Ben’s statement, offering their sympathies. Ryan, himself, directly responded to Ben, writing, “Gut-wrenching. My heartfelt condolences to the Tozer family.”
It’s not the first time Ryan has faced heartbreak close to home. Earlier this year, he mourned the loss of Wrexham supporter Jay Fear, who passed away from appendix cancer just four months after being diagnosed, at the young age of 45.
Taking to Instagram Stories, Ryan extended his condolences on behalf of himself and his wife, Blake Lively, sharing photos of him with Jay and his family. “Rest in peace, Jay Fear,” Ryan posted alongside a picture of him and Jay. “One of the bravest, kindest, and most generous people I’ve ever met. Thank you for sharing your father with me, Deb, Sam, and Jess.”
Ryan had the opportunity to meet Jay through the charity organization Bucket List Wishes. They arranged a meeting between the two ahead of Wrexham’s victorious game against Boreham Wood, which marked the team’s return to the Football League after a 15-year hiatus.
Upon meeting Jay, Ryan was deeply moved and admitted to feeling choked up. He shared, “It was incredible to meet Jay. I wonder if I’d feel the same way if our roles were reversed. He is a beautiful person, and his family is even better. I got a little emotional talking to him and realizing how much his children and wife will miss him.”
Ryan had even planned for Jay to visit the set of the highly anticipated third Deadpool film, but tragically, Jay passed away before that could happen. Nonetheless, the bond they formed in their meeting will be cherished forever.
In times of sorrow, Ryan Reynolds stands as a compassionate figure, offering support and heartfelt messages to those affected by loss. His empathy and genuine care for others shine through, reminding us all of the importance of love and connection in difficult times.
