Busch's wife, Samantha, and kids thank fans for their support following his unexpected death at 41

CONCORD, N.C. (AP) — Samantha Busch, the wife of two-time NASCAR champion Kyle Busch, who died last month at the age of 41, has issued a statement on behalf of her family to thank fans for their support.In an Instagram post on Friday, Samantha and the Busch’s children, Brexton and Lennix, wrote: “The prayers, messages, flowers, meals, hugs, and countless acts of kindness have carried us through the most heartbreaking days of our lives. While our hearts are absolutely shattered, we have felt God’s presence and arms wrapped tightly around us through each and every one of you.”Busch died May 21 after severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming complications, according to a statement released by the family soon after his death. According to his death certificate, Busch had pneumonia for “days to weeks.”

Busch’s unexpected death devastated the NASCAR community.He was thought to have had a sinus cold while racing at Watkins Glen on May 10 and radioed in to his team saying that he needed a “shot” from a doctor after the race. He continued racing and won the Truck Series race at Dover before finishing 17th in the All-Star race, five days before his death.

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