Chicago Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg passed away almost a year ago, and now his beloved wife, Margaret Koehnemann Sandberg, has publicly announced that she is battling cancer. In a tearful message, she shared: “Perhaps I’ll see him again soon…” – a statement that brought tears to the eyes of the entire “Cubs Nation.”

Less than a year after the death of legendary Ryne “Ryno” Sandberg at the age of 65 on July 28, 2025, the family received more sad news. Margaret Koehnemann Sandberg – his wife who stood by him through the most difficult years of his cancer battle – has just announced that she too is facing this terrible disease.

In an emotional statement posted on social media, Margaret wrote: “Almost a year ago, I lost my husband, my life partner, and my strongest support. Ryne fought bravely to his last breath. Now, it’s my turn to fight. I don’t know what the outcome will be, but I believe that… I’ll probably see him again soon.”

Those words were like a dagger to the hearts of millions of Cubs fans. Margaret was not only his wife but also a “silent hero” in Ryne Sandberg’s battle with cancer.

In January 2024, Ryne Sandberg publicly announced his diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer. He underwent intensive chemotherapy and radiation therapy. By August 2024, he happily announced he was cancer-free.

But just a few months later, in December 2024, the disease returned and spread to other organs. Despite receiving dedicated care from top medical professionals and especially from his wife Margaret – whom he once called “my rock” – Ryne passed away at his home in Lake Bluff, Illinois, on July 28, 2025, surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Before his death, Ryne wrote a heartfelt tribute to Margaret: “She took complete control of my fight against cancer like a captain. Because of her, I was able to relax and follow all of the doctor’s instructions. Margaret made my life happier, made me a better person. I love her more than ever. With her by my side, I can conquer anything.”

Margaret was the one who stayed by Ryne’s side throughout his grueling treatment, managing his appointments, caring for him daily, and becoming a source of strength for the entire family. Now, as she herself faces cancer, the baseball community is flocking to offer support.

Ryne Sandberg is one of the greatest legends in Chicago Cubs history. Born in 1959 in Spokane, Washington, he began his career with the Philadelphia Phillies but truly shone when he moved to the Cubs in 1982. Nicknamed “Ryno,” he became an icon of the modern second baseman: possessing both superb defensive capabilities (9-time Gold Glove winner) and formidable offensive power.

Margaret Koehnemann Sandberg was Ryne’s second wife. They married and built a happy family together with their children Justin, Lindsey, and grandchildren. In his final years, she was his strongest emotional support. Now, as she herself battles cancer, many fear her health is rapidly declining after the loss of her husband.

The Cubs Nation and the entire MLB community are sending their prayers. The Chicago Cubs, former teammates like Mark Grace and Kerry Wood, and many current stars have expressed their support. Tom Ricketts – president of the Cubs – stated, “The Sandberg family is an integral part of this organization. We will be with Margaret as we were with Ryne.”

Margaret said she will continue her treatment and maintain a positive attitude, just as Ryne always did: “We always choose to be positive and strong.”

Margaret’s statement, “Maybe I’ll see him again soon…” is not just a personal expression of her feelings, but also a testament to the deep love between the two. It’s a love that has overcome many hardships, from the basketball court to the hospital bed, and now may bring them together again in a more peaceful place.

Wrigley Field seemed quieter today. Cubs fans still usually wear number 23 jerseys and chant “Ryno! Ryno!” whenever they come to the stadium. Now, they are once again offering their prayers – not only for the departed legend, but also for the woman who accompanied him to his last breath.