Dancing on Ice professional skater Vanessa Bauer has announced the death of her beloved dad after he lived with cancer for six years.
She shared the news in a photoset posted on her Instagram account, which included several sweet photos and videos from over the years with her father.
Vanessa penned: ‘Last week I lost my dad. It hurts so much but dad always wanted us to chase our dreams and goals and never get distracted from how difficult things were at home – for the past 6 years…
‘I didn’t speak about what we were going through since seeing us fulfil our dreams gave my dad strength while battling one therapy after another..
‘He was in pain but he was ready to fight, he certainly wasn’t ready to leave, at all,’ she began.
The skater went on to speak of her dad’s wishes to ‘be a grandpa’ and grow old with her mum.
Her late father was clearly a massive support in her skating career, with Vanessa going on to say: ‘No one loved filming my rollerskating videos as much as my dad did…
‘I wanted you longer in my life but don’t worry dad, I’ll stop crying and continue to dream bigger, work harder and find happiness like you always wanted us to.
The Dancing on Ice pro confirmed his death was due to a previous cancer diagnosis, which he had been unwell with for six years.
She praised modern cancer treatments and urged her followers to look after their health, saying: ‘Cancer causes, courses, therapies etc are so different and complex.
‘I’m not a doctor but I know that our lifestyle choices can prevent some types of cancer, so I’ll keep encouraging you to take care of your body as you only have one. Dad always dreamed, “one day there will be some sort of vaccine for cancer.”’
She finished off the emotional post by thanking health workers and scientists, and added: ‘I’ll always think of you, dad, and I know you’re watching while I continue to do my thing so you can be happy for us,
‘Dennis and I will take care of mum. Life’s so precious guys. Enjoy every bit of the ride.’
Vanessa’s friends and followers quickly sent their love and support in the comments in response to her sad news.
James Jordan, who won the show back in 2019, wrote: ‘I’m so sorry for your loss Vanessa. It hurts like mad but remember as you said your dad would want you to chase your dreams – and never forget how proud he was. May he RIP.’
Emmerdale’s Joe Warren-Plant who Vanessa was partnered with earlier this year, said: ‘So sorry for your loss Vanessa. Sending all my love to you and the family.’
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