“Forever be daddy’s best friend” — San Francisco 49ers Chavarius Ward mourns death of 23-month-old daughter

New Orleans Saints v San Francisco 49ers - Source: Getty
Chavarius Ward (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images)

San Francisco 49ers Chavarius Ward has lost his one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy. She had Down Syndrome and other heart-related issues.

The NFL star took to Instagram to share a heart-wrenching note. In the post, Amani could be seen sitting down adorably and smiling to herself. The post read:

"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.”

In his post, he reflected upon how Joy brought positivity into his family’s life, stating:

“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.”
“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 football player concluded.

Ward shares the daughter with his girlfriend, Monique Cook.


NFL Team’s message for Amani Joy

In another social media post, the NFL team offered their condolences in a statement. Sending their love and prayers to Charvarius and Monique, the team wrote that it is “devastated” by the news.


Fan’s reactions

Fans sent their condolences to the NFL player, saying:

“That’s heartbreaking. No parent should have to bury a child. Rest in Peace Amani Joy.” A user wrote on X.
“Heartbroken for the Ward family.” Another person wrote.
“Praying for God love and comfort during this very difficult time. Rip” Wrote someone else.
“@itslilmooney So saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved daughter. I can't imagine any words that could offer comfort for the sorrow your family must be going through. I hope your family can find some strength and comfort in the loving memories of your daughter.” Wrote another person.

Chavarius Ward’s earlier post on his daughter

In a post by Chavarius Ward on March 22, 2024, he mentioned that his daughter is a blessing to him. He also wrote that earlier, he used to think that Down Syndrome was a handicap, but his baby girl’s birth proved him wrong. He wrote:

“World Down Syndrome Day 3/21. 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.”

He continued to write about how he and his partner went through mixed emotions, but those feelings were transformed into happiness as soon as Amani was born.

“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. At first we went through feelings of sadness & anger but those feelings transformed into pure joy as soon as we laid eyes on her.”
“She went from heart surgery to the happiest kid I’ve ever been around. 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. @amanijoyxo.”

The world observed the World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, 2024.

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Edited by Priscillah Mueni