NFL star announces passing of 1-year-old daughter: ‘We are heartbroken’

NFL star announces passing of 1-year-old daughter: ‘We are heartbroken’

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San Francisco 49ers star Charvarius Ward announced on Instagram that his daughter, Amani Joi Ward, tragically passed away on Monday morning.

Amani Joy had been dealing with severe heart complications since her birth, requiring open-heart surgery in April 2023, just six months after being born prematurely with Down syndrome.

In a heartfelt post, Ward shared a photo of himself with his daughter, alongside an emotional message expressing the deep grief and profound love his family feels for Amani Joy.

He wrote, “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… She will forever be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl. We’ll miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”

Amani’s health issues had been a significant part of Ward’s journey both personally and professionally. Her heart condition, which included two holes in her heart, had been the subject of discussions in the past.

49ERS STAR

One of the holes closed naturally, but the other continued to grow, leading to an urgent need for surgery. Ward previously opened up about this challenge, recounting the emotional toll it took on him, as he described the helplessness he felt watching his daughter undergo such a major procedure.

A Community in Mourning

Charvarius WardCharvarius Ward

The 49ers, currently on a bye week, issued a statement mourning the loss of Amani Joy.

“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,” the team said.

Ward’s bond with his daughter had a noticeable impact on his performance last season, helping him earn his first Pro Bowl selection.

He had spoken publicly about the connection they developed over time and credited their relationship for helping him focus and succeed on the field.

Ward, who joined the 49ers in 2022 as a free agent, has been an essential part of their defense. Despite the immense personal tragedy, his teammates and the organization are standing by him during this difficult time.

As the 49ers continue their season, Ward’s impact on the field remains clear, but it is his strength and courage off the field that resonates most with his fans and teammates.

San Francisco 49ers player announces death of 1-year-old daughter: ‘We are heartbroken’