NFL player claims 23-month-old daughter has died

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – San Francisco 49ers linebacker Charvarius Ward announced Tuesday that his 23-month-old daughter has died.

Ward said in post on Instagram that Amani Joy died on Monday. Amani Joy had Down syndrome and had been struggling with heart problems since birth.

“She was the best blessing we could have asked for and her joyful spirit had us smiling from ear to ear,” Ward wrote in the post. “She taught us patience, trust and a positive attitude to life. She showed us true strength and courage. She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up every room with her smile.

“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 girl. We will miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy.”

Amani Joy had two holes in her heart at birth and had to undergo surgery in April 2023 to repair one. ESPN reports.

In statement on TwitterThe 49ers organization said it was “devastated” by the news of Amani Joy’s death.

“Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to everyone around her with her sweet demeanor and contagious laugh,” the statement read. “We will continue to mourn Charvarius and Monique and send them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”

Ward, 28, has played in all 41 games since signing with the 49ers in 2022 and was named to the All-Pro second team last season.

(The Associated Press contributed to this story.)