Belgian Soccer Player Dies After Leukemia Battle
Why this is here: Bakala’s coach said the young athlete continued to fight with incredible strength even while battling leukemia, serving as an example of courage to others.
Andrew Bakala, a 17-year-old soccer player from Tournai, Belgium, died Monday after a months-long battle with leukemia. He was diagnosed with the disease last autumn and played for the U17 team at FC Bléharies.
The Collège Notre-Dame de Tournai, where Bakala was a student, honored him on Facebook. His coach, Jason Demeulemeester, described Bakala as a “formidable boy” who showed great determination and kindness. Demeulemeester noted Bakala continued to fight despite his illness.
Teammates remember Bakala as a close friend, always smiling and ready to help. Sixteen-year-old Romain Haylliez said Bakala was a “warrior” on the field and they remained in contact despite his illness. The club will attend the funeral and has started a fundraising campaign for his family.