SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward took to Instagram Monday to announce the tragic passing of his 1-year-old daughter, Amani Joy.
Joy, who was born prematurely with Down syndrome, had been battling heart issues. She underwent open-heart surgery last year.
“We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy passed away on Monday morning,” Ward wrote on Instagram. “She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear. She taught us to have patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life.”
GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 17: Charvarius Ward #7 of the San Francisco 49ers walks off of the field after an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on December 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
“She showed us true strength and bravery,” the post continued. “She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile. Having the privilege of being her parents and seeing the world through her eyes has changed us for the better. She will forever be her daddy’s best friend and mommy’s little girl.”
On Tuesday, the 49ers put out a statement saying “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. “We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique, while sending them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”
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About 5,700 babies born in the U.S. each year have Down syndrome, according to the CDC. Persons with Down syndrome have an average lifespan of roughly 47 years old, but babies born with Down syndrome and a congenital heart defect are less likely to survive their first year, the CDC notes.
Half or more of all babies born with Down syndrome have a congenital heart defect, many of which require surgery.
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