Tristan Thompson has spoken out for the first time since his mother's death last month, as he apologised to his mother for "embarrassment and pain".
The 31-year-old basketball player and ex of Khloe Kardashian has been left heartbroken by the sudden death of his mother Andrea, who suffered a heart attack at home in Toronto last month.
Speaking on his Instagram, the former Chicago Bulls player shared pictures of his late mother as he wrote a heartfelt tribute to "mommy" Andrea Thompson.
In a post shared with his 3.8 million followers, Tristan opened up about his "deepest part of sorrow and grief" since losing his mother.
Tristan wrote: "Dearest mommy in heaven, It has been one month since you’ve been gone. I’m in disbelief. Im in the deepest part of sorrow & grief.
"My soul is empty as I come to terms that my biggest supporter/superhero is gone. I cannot thank you enough for always being a woman of faith, being one of Gods warriors, fighting back with whatever the world threw our way. You constantly protected us through prayer. My hero you fought all the battles you needed to and it was time for you to go home."
He continued: "Man, What I wouldn’t give to hear ur voice. "Who God has blessed, no man can curse my son". Mommy I know you’re watching down on me; I wanna say thank you for picking me as your son. You dedicated ur life to ur boys & the church. Prayed & fasted for family/friends because you know how evil this world is.
"Mommy, all the sacrifices you did for ur sons will never go unnoticed or without appreciation. You were an amazing mommy, role model, best friend & the strongest woman I know.I know you’re here as I write this letter. "
In a possible reference to Khloe Kardashian and his infidelities which caused scandal and grabbed headlines, Tristan wrote: "All I can say is, Im sorry mommy for the wrong decisions Ive made in my life. Im sorry for the embarrassment &pain.
"You raised me better than what I was able to show you. But I have also learned sorry is not enough. Actions speak louder than words. So I wont just say sorry.
"Stay tuned to the ways I will show the world what an amazing son you raised. I will show you that even when we fall & make mistakes, we get back up. You are my motivation. Stand beside me as I become the man I know you always believed in. Im going to make you proud, I promise!"
He concluded: "Mommy, Amari is going to be taken care of. I’ll protect him, love him &do anything in the world to make sure he’s ok.
"I know they say time heals all but I don’t think this pain will ever go away. We had so many memories &more I wanted to share with you. We will still share them but now from heaven. As the tears roll down my face, all I can ask is please continue to be my light. mommy, you’re my guardian angel and I’ll forever praise you.
"I love you mommy. I can’t wait to see you and when I do I’m going to run and give you the biggest hug and kiss. I promise to make you proud."
Tristan signed off as "Your first born Tristan", with the post gathering support from friends, family and fans alike.
Ex Khloe has also shown her support for Tristan, who she shares daughter True and her unnamed son with. The reality star was seen stepping off a plane in Canada as she rushed to be beside her ex's side as he grieved.
