Tributes have poured in for Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy after he revealed he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Hoy, who won six gold medals and one silver for Team GB, told The Sunday Times that doctors had told him he had between two and four years to live.
While Hoy, 48, said earlier this year he had been undergoing treatment for cancer, he did not reveal what type it was, but told The Sunday Times he had been diagnosed with primary cancer of the prostate and It has spread to the bones.
His wife Sarah has also been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a degenerative disease. The couple have two children, Chloe and Callum.
“Even though it feels unnatural, it is natural,” Hoy told The Sunday Times. “You know, we’re all born and we all die, it’s just part of the process. You remind yourself, I’m not very lucky because I can take medication to fend off this for as long as possible.
“Honestly, I’m positive most of the time and I have real joy,” he added. “This is bigger than the Olympics. It’s bigger than anything. It’s about appreciating life and finding joy.
After the article was published, social media platforms were flooded with tributes and support from friends and well-wishers.
“Chris, you are incredible and give us so much love and strength,” said Olympic gold medalist Sally Gunnell.
Television commentator and former footballer Ellie McCoist wrote: “My friend, you are a superstar in every sense of the word. Love and strength from all of us.
Olympic cyclist Mark Cavendish called Hoy a “human hero”.
The Edinburgh-born athlete is credited with playing a key role in making British Cycling the success it is today.
Hoy later shared a photo on Instagram from the World Track Cycling Championships in Copenhagen, writing: “You may see a few articles about my health in the news this weekend so I just wanted to give everyone a heads up. Promise, I feel healthy, strong and positive, and overwhelmed by the love and support for me and my family. Keep it up!
UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “I am in awe that Chris Hoy has responded to cancer with the same positivity and resilience that he has shown throughout his life and career. The whole country will remember him Come on, as we have done many times before, and send so much love to him and his family.
“I send my best wishes to Sir Chris Hoy and his family,” Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney wrote. “He has always inspired us with everything he did. He was a man of incredible courage and that still shines through today.
“Chris Hoy is one of the best players to ever represent our country,” said Olympic rower Matthew Pinsent. “Thoughts are with him, Sarah and his immediate family.”
“An article that will stop you in your tracks,” wrote football commentator Jacqui Oatley. “It was shocking to read about the diagnosis of Sir Chris Hoy and his wife Sarah. Life can be so cruel. But the grace and humility with which he told this story was truly humbling.
“I was blown away by Sir Chris Hoy’s resilience and determination this morning,” TV presenter Dan Walker said. “Shortly after being told he had 2 to 4 years to live due to terminal cancer…his lovely wife Sarra was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
“This man continues to be an incredible inspiration. Sending love to the whole family.
