Charvarius Ward is grieving the loss of his baby girl.
The 28-year-old San Francisco 49ers cornerback announced on Tuesday, October 29, that his 23-month-old daughter Amani Joy, whom he shares with girlfriend Monique Cook, has passed away. In a heartfelt post on Instagram featuring a photo of his daughter, Ward expressed that his family is “heartbroken” as they come to terms with the devastating news.
“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 shared in the caption.
“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.”
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“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,” he ended his post.
The 49ers also issued a statement on Instagram, expressing their love and support for Ward and Cook.
“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy,” they stated. “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.”
In March, Ward shared a series of photos of his daughter to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day.
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“Amani Joy Ward has been the greatest blessing I could have hoped for. I once believed that Down Syndrome was a handicap, but I now understand it as simply a gift from God,” Ward shared 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.”
He reflected on how his feelings of sadness and anger shifted into joy, adding that she also underwent heart surgery after being diagnosed with Down syndrome.
“Amani is filled with pure joy & a contagious laugh. My baby makes me smile from ear to ear every time I see her. November 17, 2022, a star was born. We love you AMANI JOY 💛💙💛💙💛💙💛💙💛💙💛💙.”