A dedicated New England Patriots fan, Shelly Sepulveda, has passed away just weeks after being gifted Super Bowl tickets by team owner Robert Kraft.
The 42-year-old lost her life on Monday following a two-year struggle with ovarian cancer. This came just hours after the Patriots triumphed over the Denver Broncos, securing their place in Super Bowl LX, according to reports. A GoFundMe campaign has been started to help her family during this challenging time.
“Shelly was deeply cherished, and her absence has created an unimaginable void for her family and all who knew her,” stated the GoFundMe page.
Her death was a shock, adding further strain to what was already a significant financial burden.
A mother of six, Sepulveda received a stage 3 ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2024.
On January 11, after the Patriots’ playoff win against the Los Angeles Chargers, Kraft surprised her with tickets for Super Bowl 60, to be held at Gillette Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This moment occurred just after she had endured chemotherapy the week prior.
Before receiving her ticket, Sepulveda shared with Kraft that her love for the Patriots had been a source of comfort throughout her illness.
“When I’m here, I don’t think about cancer, I watch the Patriots,” she remarked to Kraft.
She was visibly moved as Kraft presented her with the tickets, expressing immense gratitude while holding his hand. “It means so much to me,” she said, reflecting on the battle with cancer she had faced for two years.
A few days later, on January 17, Sepulveda was hospitalized due to low blood counts, as updated by her wife, Tami Sepulveda, on Facebook.
Tami later noted, “Shelly fought with all her strength to remain with us. She’s a warrior and now an angel looking down on us.”
Feeling overwhelmed, Tami expressed how much Shelly was loved, emphasizing her role as an incredible wife, mother, and friend who will be greatly missed. “Rest in peace now, Shelly, I love you,” she added.
The couple spent over 23 years together, raising more than 20 children from families struggling with substance abuse, along with adopting five children and having one biological son.
Before her passing, Shelly described her cancer journey as a “constant battle.” She stated, “It’s about survival, it’s about fighting for your life. Many face cancer without support, but luckily, I have my loved ones.” Her children were her primary motivation to keep pushing forward.
She reflected, “I don’t want my kids to see me as someone who gives up, and I think it’s crucial for them to know that asking for help is okay.”
As of Wednesday morning, the GoFundMe established in December 2024 has raised over $34,000 to assist her family.
