Is there anything more painful than losing a parent? Losing a parent is the highest form of tragedy. Unfortunately, Olympian Mikaela Shiffrin suffered through this tragic situation when her father passed away. Mikaela Shiffrin’s father, Jeff Shiffrin, was one of her biggest supporters, in addition to being her photographer.
February 2nd is her father’s death anniversary. As a tribute to her father, Shiffrin posted an emotional picture on her Instagram account, and her fans immediately came to comfort her.
Mikaela Shiffrin’s Fans Offer Heartfelt Solace
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Shiffrin lost her father due to a tragic accident. Because of the bond that they shared, her father’s death was a difficult time for her. Knowing how hard the day must be for her, her fans came to console Shiffrin. Fans expressed their despair on the anniversary of Shiffrin’s father’s demise. “Powerful picture. Sad he left way too soon.”
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Many fans reminded her how she is living the dream he envisioned for her. One fan commented, “You’ve made him so proud of you. A Dream of both of yours that you’ll forever share and cherish with him… You’re a inspiration to many and thx for sharing the story. Much Love” Another fan expressed their sorrow saying, “Sooo sad 😢😢😢, but your dad is with you and so proud of you ❤️”
Read more: “Miss You Always”- Mikaela Shiffrin Makes a Heartfelt Post for Dad on Father’s Day
Another fan offered words of strength saying, “Blessings and strength to you Mikaela… He is so f***ing proud of what you’ve become!!” People also sent blessings to her and her family. One follower wrote, “Thinking of you and your family 🕊️💔” Shiffrin must have needed these words today, as living without her father has been unfathomable for her.
The Loss of A Special Bond
Mikaela Shiffrin lost her father in due to a terrible head injury that ensued after an accident at their home. Under the circumstances, closure was impossible. Her father’s death affected her in such a way that she contemplated leaving skiing altogether. Her family, however, rallied around her ad her brother convinced her to keep skiing. But ultimately, she did it for her late father.
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Shiffrin’s father had always been a bright presence at all her competitions. From her personal photographer to her confidant, his support was what Shiffrin derived her strength. Even when she was at the height of her career, her father always kept a close check on her. He taught her that nothing was more important than herself and that she could quit anytime if she didn’t want to do it anymore.
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After his death, Shiffrin was a wreck. But she pulled herself out of the dark place and got back to skiing. Her getting back to the sport and competing again was her way of paying tribute to her father.
Dive Deeper: “Thought of Him and Sobbed”- Courageous Mikaela Shiffrin Pens Down a Heartbreaking Tribute to Late Father