"Our anguish at the sudden loss of Anthony is bottomless."
So begins a statement issued this afternoon by Anthony Foley's family, following the sudden death of the 42 year old yesterday.
His family describe him as "an amazing, adoring and loving father and husband".
The family also thank everyone for their support saying it will help carry them through these darkest days.
He was found dead at a hotel in Paris yesterday morning.
No funeral arrangement have yet been finalised and the family is appealing for privacy.
The death of the man affectionately known as "Axel" has prompted an online show of respect with the hashtag #WearRedforAxel trending on Twitter.
Wearing red for Axel. @kcshowcork @Munsterrugby #wearredforaxel pic.twitter.com/aqNwq56v3g
— Brian O'Callaghan (@CallaghanBrian) October 17, 2016
Can't do a jersey at work but #WearRedForAxel nonetheless #RIPAxel pic.twitter.com/UGhb1pGXCM
— Eimz T (@EimzT) October 17, 2016
Doubt GR8 #AnthonyFoley would have been selfie fan #oldschool @Munsterrugby tie today @SaleSharksRugby epic battles #wearredforaxel #RIPAxel pic.twitter.com/wcd2vaqP4e
— Barry-John Ryan (@BJRYAN1977) October 17, 2016
These people in his home town of Killaloe are promising to rally support for the Foley family:
And for many of Anthony Foley's friends and former teammates, the tragedy of a life cut short remains hard to take.
Alone on the couch with Jess.Heartbroken.We have lost an incredible man. Too sad to tweet further.. sleep well Axel. We love you..xxx
— Ronan O Gara (@RonanOGara10) October 16, 2016
