The AFL Players’ Association is deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Madeleine Riewoldt.

President Luke Ball said, “On behalf of all players, we extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Madeleine Riewoldt during what is an incredibly sad time.

“I’m heartbroken for Roo – a friend and former teammate – and the Riewoldt family. My thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.”

Following a five-year battle, two bone marrow transplants and seven months in hospital fighting Aplastic Anaemia, Madeleine’s incredibly brave battle ended this morning aged 26, at Royal Melbourne Hospital with family by her side.

Madeleine’s wishes were for greater awareness to the need for people to sign up to the Bone Marrow registry http://www.abmdr.org.au and Australian Red Cross Blood donation www.donateblood.com.au and we encourage everyone to share this message.

The family have suggested that anyone wanting to show their support can sign up to the Bone Marrow registry http://www.abmdr.org.au and Australian Red Cross Blood donation www.donateblood.com.au.