Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Maddie Musselman, the talented U.S. women’s water polo star, is facing a heart-wrenching loss as her husband, Pat Woepse, passed away at the young age of 31 after battling a rare form of lung cancer. Woepse, a former water polo player at UCLA, was diagnosed with NUT carcinoma in September 2023, but his fighting spirit and determination led him to witness his wife compete in her third Olympics in Paris.
In an emotional Instagram post, Musselman shared the devastating news of her husband’s passing, expressing her profound grief and love for him. She described Woepse as the light of her life, her first love, and the best husband she could have ever asked for. Despite his year-long battle with cancer, Woepse never complained and showed immense courage and strength every day.
The couple’s love story began at a friend’s wedding in 2022, leading to a whirlwind romance and marriage the following year. Even in the face of Woepse’s terminal diagnosis, they managed to create beautiful memories together, including a heartfelt wedding ceremony that came together in just four days.
Musselman, who has achieved Olympic gold with Team USA in 2016 and 2020, now faces the challenge of navigating life without her beloved husband by her side. She credits Woepse’s unwavering support and encouragement, even during times when she felt torn between being with him and fulfilling her water polo commitments.
As the water polo community mourns the loss of Woepse, his legacy as a talented athlete and a beloved husband lives on. His impact on those around him, including his teammates at UCLA and his wife, is a testament to his strength and character. The world of water polo has lost a shining star, but his memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.
Husband of Team USA water polo star Maddie Musselman dies at 31 – NBC Los Angeles
Who was Pat Woepse and what was his diagnosis?
Pat Woepse was a former water polo player at UCLA who was diagnosed with NUT carcinoma, a rare form of lung cancer, in September 2023. Despite his diagnosis, he was determined to see his wife, U.S. women’s water polo star Maddie Musselman, compete in her third Olympics in Paris.
What was the relationship between Maddie Musselman and Pat Woepse?
Maddie Musselman and Pat Woepse met at a friend’s wedding in 2022. They got married the following year and soon after, Woepse learned that he likely had just months to live due to his cancer diagnosis. Despite the challenges they faced, their love and support for each other never wavered.
How did Maddie Musselman react to the death of her husband?
Maddie Musselman shared the heartbreaking news of her husband’s passing on Instagram, expressing her deep sorrow and love for him. She described him as the light of her life and her first love, emphasizing the impact he had on her and the strength he showed throughout his battle with cancer.
How did Pat Woepse’s cancer battle affect their relationship?
Maddie Musselman and Pat Woepse’s relationship was tested by his cancer diagnosis, but their love and commitment to each other remained strong. Musselman faced difficult decisions about balancing her time between caring for her husband and practicing with her team, but Woepse always supported her and encouraged her to continue pursuing her dreams.
What was Pat Woepse’s impact on the UCLA water polo team?
Pat Woepse, a former UCLA water polo player, played a significant role in helping the Bruins win back-to-back national titles in 2014 and 2015. His teammates visited him in the hospital to show their support and celebrate their achievements together.
How did Maddie Musselman and Team USA perform in the Olympics?
Maddie Musselman and Team USA won Olympic gold in both 2020 and 2016, showcasing their talent and teamwork on the international stage. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of Pat Woepse and missing out on a medal in Paris, they continued to show resilience and determination in their pursuit of excellence.
Sources:
– Instagram
– NBC Los Angeles