San Francisco 49ers’ Charvarius Ward Is “Heartbroken” Following Death Of Daughter Amani Joy
San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward announced that his 23-month-old daughter Amani Joy died on Monday (Oct. 28).
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy passed away on Monday morning. She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear,” wrote the 28-year-old NFL star in a tribute post on Instagram. “She taught us to have patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life. She showed us true strength and bravery. She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile.”
Ward continued, “Having the privilege of being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes has changed us for the better. She will forever be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”
The 49ers also penned a heartfelt tribute to Ward and his family in light of the tragic event.
“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy. Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to all those around her with her sweet demeanor and contagious laugh. We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, while sending them our love and support during this unimaginable time,” the statement read.
Ward and his longtime girlfriend, Monique Cook, welcomed Amani on Nov. 17, 2022.
Back in March for World Down Syndrome Day, Ward opened up about Amani’s diagnosis. “Amani Joy Ward has been the best blessing I could’ve asked for. I used to think Down Syndrome was a handicap but now I realize it is just a gift from God,” he wrote.
Ward added, “Being Amani’s dad has taught me patience & how to surrender & let things be. We couldn’t control whether she had Trisomy 21 but we can control our attitude about it. At first we went through feelings of sadness & anger but those feelings transformed into pure joy as soon as we laid eyes on her. She went from heart surgery to the happiest kid I’ve ever been around […] My baby makes me smile from ear to ear every time I see her. November 17, 2022 a star was born.”
VIBE sends our deepest condolences to the Ward family during this time.
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