The one-year-old daughter of San Francisco 49ers star Charvarius Ward died Monday.
Amani Joy died shortly before her second birthday after battling heart problems since her birth in 2022.
Ward, a cornerback in the San Francisco organization, confirmed the news of the loss of his ‘beautiful girl’ while paying tribute in an emotional statement Tuesday afternoon.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy, passed away Monday morning,” he wrote.
‘She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyful spirit made us smile from ear to ear. She taught us patience, confidence and a positive attitude towards life. She showed us true strength and bravery. He overcame adversity from a very young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with his smile.
The one-year-old daughter of San Francisco 49ers star Charvarius Ward died Monday
Amani Joy, who would turn two in November, is pictured with her mother, Monique.
‘Having the privilege of being their parents and seeing the world through their eyes has changed us for the better. She will always be daddy’s best friend and mommy’s girl. We will miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.’
Amani was born prematurely with Down syndrome and had suffered several health problems throughout her life.
The little girl underwent open heart surgery on April 11, 2023, approximately six months after her birth, after being born with holes in her heart.
Ward spoke about his daughter’s condition last year on then-teammate Ark Armstead’s podcast.
“He was born with two holes in his heart,” Ward told Armstead. “The doctor said, ‘If the holes close, it’s fine.’ One of them closed and the other kept expanding and getting bigger, until it was the size of a fist. … They said, we have to do the surgery as soon as possible .
‘That was scary because it’s a really serious surgery. And she’s your daughter, you just feel sorry for her, she’s out of your league, there’s nothing you can do about it.’
The 49ers franchise also announced the heartbreaking news of Amani’s death Tuesday afternoon, sending “love and support” to Ward and his girlfriend Monique.
“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy,” the team’s statement read.
‘Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to everyone around her with her sweet demeanor and infectious laugh. “We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, as we send them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”
The devastating news comes just two days after Ward suited up for the 49ers in a 30-24 victory over the Dallas Cowboys at Levi’s Stadium.
The 28-year-old is in his third season in San Francisco and seventh in the NFL after beginning his career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2018.
More to follow.