Australian Olympian Emily Seebohm is mourning the loss of her grandfather, less than a year after his great-grandson was born.
Seebohm and former reality TV star Ryan Gallagher welcomed their son Sampson into the world in late September last year.
Sadly, though, Sam only met his great-grandpa “one time” before his tragic passing, which Seebohm mourned in recent days.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today
“They may have only met one time but the love will last forever,” Seebohm captioned a photo of Sam and her grandfather.
“My heart’s a little broken right now, but looking back, you made my childhood unforgettable and I know I’ll see you again.
“I love you, pa.”
The post was flooded with messages of condolence from hundreds of people.
“He would have loved meeting dear little Sampson, so remember that. Sending love,” one said.
Seebohm, a three-time Olympic gold medallist, has still competed as recently as June this year when, remarkably, she came seventh at Australia’s Paris 2024 trials for the 100 metres backstroke, just eight months after giving birth.
The 32-year-old also tried her hand in the 200 metres backstroke, but did not qualify for the Games.
That did nothing to stop the admiration of her from fans, who couldn’t believe the level of athleticism she was able to reach, so soon after giving birth.
“For Emily Seebohm to finish seventh in the final of an Olympic trial eight months after having a baby is amazing,” John Dean said at the time.
Journalist and mother Jen Browning added: “I’m currently sitting on the couch eating chocolate nine months (post-birth). She’s amazing”.