Former Biggest Loser contestant Damein Gurganious has died at the age of 38 on Nov. 24. He was a contestant on Season 7 of the hit NBC show.
Gurganious’ wife, Nicole, confirmed his death, explaining he died of a sudden onset of a rare autoimmune disorder, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, which caused bleeding to his brain.
"He was a pillar of his family, an amazing son, brother, cousin and uncle. He was an incredible husband and father to his two-year old daughter, Giselle,” his family told Us Weekly in a statement. “He was an inspiration and a mentor to so many. His love for his family and friends was immense."
Nicole, who appeared beside her then-fiance on the show in 2009, also posted a tribute on Facebook.
“All of you who knew Damien can attest to his generous and loving spirit, his outgoing and gregarious personality, and his caring and compassionate nature,” she wrote. “Damien always desired to bring out the best in those around him by offering encouragement, support and love, often couched in his own hilarious and sage adages.”
She also informed they would be holding a “Celebration of Life” for him on Saturday, Dec. 6 in Brooklyn, New York.