Damien Gurganious was just 38 years old when he died on November 24th. He participated in season 7 of The Biggest Loser. His death was caused by a sudden onset of a rare autoimmune disorder called Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), that cause a severe brain bleed.

According to a report from Us Weekly, Damien celebrated his birthday just about a week before his sudden death.

“He was a pillar of his family, an amazing son, brother, cousin and uncle,” his family told the publication in an exclusive statement. “He was an incredible husband and father to his two-year old daughter, Giselle. He was an inspiration and a mentor to so many. His love for his family and friends was immense.”

The #BiggestLoser family is in mourning. Season 7 alum Damien Gurganious has died at age 38: http://t.co/MHq5Zl4kuU

— Us Weekly (@usweekly) December 4, 2014

Damien Gurganious and his fiancee–now wife–Nicole Brewer Gurganious appeared on The Biggest Loser in 2009. Even though they were eliminated during the third week of that season’s competition, both went on to lose weight after the show. They married in August of that year.

“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,” his wife wrote in her statement announcing his passing. “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.”

On the December 11th episode of The Biggest Loser, the show will air an ‘in memoriam’ message about Damien Gurganious at the end of the show.

In addition to his wife Nicole, Damien Gurganious is survived by their daughter Giselle.

Condolences are likely going out to both Nicole Gurganious as well as to The Biggest Loser family for this devastating loss.