After just reporting on her latest update about her husband Gregg's battle with cancer, Real Housewives of Atlanta alum NeNe got the heartbreaking news that her husband had passed away. He was 66.
Gregg died "peacefully" in his home while surrounded by his family, publicist and longtime family friend Ernest Dukes confirmed in a statement on Wednesday.
"Today the Leakes family is in deep pain with a broken heart. After a long battle with cancer, Gregg Leakes has passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by all of his children, very close loved ones and wife Nene Leakes," said Dukes.
"We ask that you pray for peace and strength over their family & allow them to mourn in private during this very very difficult time."
Gregg, who was diagnosed with Stage III colon cancer in 2018, had been in remission for two years. In June, NeNe revealed he was hospitalized and recovering from surgery following the return of his cancer.
"It's difficult," she said during an Instagram Live at the time. "He's super small. If you've ever been around somebody who's had cancer before, he's different. He's different."
The couple, who got married initially in 1997, divorced in 2011 before remarrying in June 2013. They share one son together, Brentt Leakes, whos is now 22.
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Following Gregg's colon cancer diagnosis, fans witnessed the toll the illness took on their marriage during the 11th season of Real Housewives of Atlanta. At one point, NeNe even admitted she was considering a second divorce because of his attitude toward her while going through chemotherapy.
"It's been a big transition for Gregg and I and our entire family," she told PEOPLE in November 2018. "To learn that Gregg has cancer? Our lives just changed that day. Our whole routine changed. Just … everything changed. I don't have cancer. Gregg has cancer. But I feel like our whole house has cancer."
"He's a changed person, his attitude changed," she continued. "I feel like that day I lost my husband. Our whole dynamic changed. Sometimes I forget that he's sick and I need to remind myself because he's so on edge. He's not nice, but he can't help it."
According to the American Cancer Society, it is often the spouse or partner of a patient with cancer that is affected most significantly of all the family members. Both the patient and their spouse may experience strong emotions about the condition, such as sadness, anxiety, or anger, which can affect the relationship.
Cancer treatment may also shift the roles that each partner plays in the relationship if there is a need for adjustments to be made to accommodate the health of the cancer patient. This change in expectations and responsibilities can be difficult for both the patient and the partner, who may report feeling, guilty, or overwhelmed.
Cancer can also have an impact on sexuality and the intimacy of couples. Many treatments for cancer may cause side effects such as low libido, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, or depression, which may interfere with intercourse and sexuality. This can contribute to anxiety and tension between the couple, which may be difficult to discuss and work through.
Since hearing of Gregg's passing, celebrities have been posting and tweetin their condolences.
"Heartbroken," tweeted fellow reality star Cynthia Bailey.
"So many good times & so many amazing memories. Gregg was always so loving, funny & kind. So blessed to have had him in my life. Sending my heartfelt condolences to @NeNeLeakes and her family. Thinking of you & my heart and prayers are with you."
