Kirk Herbstreit announced the shocking news Thursday that he had to give up his beloved golden retriever Ben after battling cancer.
“It's really hard for me to write this, but because so many of you love and care about Ben, I wanted to let you all know that today, the cancer has metastasized to all of Ben's organs. “There was nothing we could do but let him go,” Herbstreit shared on her social media page.
Earlier this week, college football and NFL analysts revealed that Ben had been undergoing chemotherapy but his condition was deteriorating, and that the next 24 to 48 hours would be a critical period to determine if he would survive. He pointed out that it would happen.
Herbstreit paid tribute to Ben on Thursday, calling him “1.” [of] 1.”
“I've had dogs all my life, and Ben was one year old.” [of] 1. He was wise, kind, patient, curious and welcoming to everyone,” the former Ohio State QB wrote. “He always had a big smile on his face and his tail wagged sweetly. He and I were able to communicate… He and I understood each other and supported each other.”
Since last year, football fans have grown fond of Ben, with the dog appearing on a private jet with Herb Streit at a game on “Thursday Night Football” where the color commentator called out Amazon, and on “College Game Day.” campus and Saturday night college football games. The game was broadcast on ESPN.
“He was with me more than anyone else at home and traveled with me for work. We are very easygoing companions,” Herbstreit wrote.
“It's a tough day, but he will live forever in all of us. God bless his majestic soul and have had him in my life for the last 10 years.” Thank you for letting me in, this is a real blessing.”
