American Olympic and World Championship gold medallist Bode Miller has revealed that his 19-month-old daughter has tragically died after falling into a swimming pool.
Bode Miller announced the sad news on Monday with a heartbreaking post on Instagram.
Posting a collection of pictures and videos showing 19-month-old Emmy, Bode wrote: 'We are beyond devastated. Our baby girl, Emmy, passed away yesterday. Never in a million years did we think we would experience a pain like this.'
The grieving father continued: 'Her love, her light, her spirit will never be forgotten. Our little girl loved life and lived it to it’s fullest everyday. Our family respectfully requests privacy during this painful time.'
The BBC report that Emmy was found unconscious at a neighbour's home in southern California and doctors were unable to revive her.
Bode and his wife Morgan, a professional beach volleyball player, have another baby on the way and are already parents to three-year-old Nash Skan. Bode also has two children from previous relationships, a five-year-old son called Samuel and a 10-year-old daughter called Neesyn.
Bode is the most successful skier in US history with six Olympic medals under his belt including gold at the 2010 games in Vancouver.
His followers have flooded the post with messages of condolences. One wrote: 'There are no words that could begin to ease your pain. Please know there so many people holding your family in their hearts and thoughts. I hope in time the pain will ease and your memories of Emmy will be a comfort. May her memory be for a blessing. 💕'.
Another said: 'No words can say how awful I feel for you and your family! Thinking of u all'.
A third commented: 'Please know that all of your family remain in our hearts and prayers as you mourn the tragic loss of your beloved little girl Emmy. Our heartfelt condolences.'
