San Francisco 49ers Player Charvarius Ward Mourns the Passing of His Daughter
San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward and his wife Monique are mourning the loss of their 11-month-old daughter, Amani Joy, who died Monday morning. The couple shared the heartbreaking news on social media, reflecting on the impact their daughter had on their lives during her short time with them.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy passed away on Monday morning,” Ward wrote. “She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear.”
In his post, Ward emphasized the profound effect Amani had on their lives. “She taught us to have patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life. She showed us true strength and bravery,” he said. “She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile.”
The 49ers organization in their own post said in a statement their thoughts are with the Ward family.
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“Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to all those around her with her sweet demeanor and contagious laugh,” the team said. “We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, while sending them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”
“I used to think Down Syndrome was a handicap but now I realize it is just a gift from God,” Ward wrote. “Being Amani’s dad has taught me patience & how to surrender & let things be.”
Down syndrome is a condition in which a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This extra chromosome affects how the body and brain develop, potentially causing both physical and mental challenges.
The agency said babies with Down syndrome often face health challenges. The CDC notes that between 50 percent to 65 percent of all babies born with Down syndrome also have a congenital heart defect, which may require surgery.
Ward, a key player for the 49ers, has started all 41 games since joining the team in 2022 and was voted second-team All-Pro last season. He played nearly the entire game in the 49ers’ recent victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night. The team is on its bye week this week.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
