Radio show host Rob Dempsey has died at the age of 57, just one week after telling listeners he had been diagnosed with stage three bladder cancer.
The broadcaster died on Wednesday from “complications related to stage three bladder cancer” after going into cardiac arrest and being rushed to hospital for emergency surgery.
Announcing his death, Rob’s wife of 33 years, Amy, said he died from a blood clot in his lung that went to his heart, MailOnline reports.
A spokesperson for radio station HisAir, where Rob worked for 24 years, shared a statement praising his legacy.
They said: “He always had us laughing. His fingerprints are all over this place. He was not just a boss, he was a leader, an encourager. He made such an impact to the community.”
Rob’s fans and colleagues have paid tribute in droves. Danny wrote on social media: “This one hurts. Rob you were one of my absolute favourites in radio.”
Cade echoed: “My heart is broken. You will be missed.”
Alissa penned: “Heartbroken to hear you have left us too soon. But Heaven got you right on time and how lucky are they. You were a favourite person of mine, always cheering on the world around you. Farewell for now friend.”
Matt said: “Heartbroken. You were such a beacon to so many.”
And Natalie added: “Rob – you were always one of my very favourite radio guys and a dear friend. This is devastating. Praying for your precious wife and family.”
Rob leaves behind his wife of 33 years and four children.
Writing about his family on the radio station’s website, Rob said he and Amy were proud adoptive and foster parents to “a 38-year-old war hero, 27-year-old Social Media Marketing Director, a 22-year-old college graduate who just got married, and a 15-year-old whom they adopted in November 2009.”
Rob was the radio station manager and host of the daily Rob and Lizz in the Morning Show, which broadcast from Greenville South Carolina.
Despite his devastating diagnosis, Rob remained optimistic until the end. He wrote on Facebook just one week before his death: “The days ahead will be tough and that’s ok. I am determined to be a dad there for his kids. I’m determined to be that grandpa who will watch them grow up, graduate and get married. I want to grow old with my wife who has been a rock through all of this junk.
“I’ve watched a few videos of people who have survived this and even have new bladders! Things look hopeful.”
