San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward has announced the death of his one-year-old daughter.
On Tuesday (October 29), Ward took to Instagram to share that his daughter, Amani Joy, whom he shares with girlfriend Monique Cook, had died.
"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," Ward wrote alongside a photo of his daughter.
"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," he 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 NFL player concluded his post.
Ward has previously opened up about his daughter having Down Syndrome. Amani Joy underwent heart surgery after receiving her diagnosis.
The cornerback celebrated World Down Syndrome Day in March, sharing photos of his daughters on social media.
"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," Ward wrote in his post. "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."
In the wake of Amani Joy's death, the 49ers released a statement on social media, mourning the loss of the one-year-old.
"The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward's beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy," the organization wrote. "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."
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