Charvarius Ward mourns the loss of his daughter.

The 28-year-old cornerback of the San Francisco 49ers announced on Tuesday, October 29, that his 23-month-old daughter Amani Joy, whom he shares with girlfriend Monique Cook, has passed away. Ward shared a photo of his daughter on his Instagram and wrote that his family is “heartbroken” as they process the tragic news.

“We are heartbroken that our beautiful girl, Amani Joy, passed away on Monday morning. She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyful spirit made us smile from ear to ear,” Ward wrote in the caption.

“She taught us patience, confidence and a positive outlook on life. She showed us true strength and courage. She overcame adversity at a young age and was always happy, lighting up any 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 will miss you and love you forever, Amani Joy,” he ended. his post.

The 49ers also released a statement on Instagram, sending love and support to Ward and Cook.

“The 49ers family is devastated by the sudden passing of Charvarius Ward’s beloved one-year-old daughter, Amani Joy,” they wrote. “Amani truly embodied pure happiness and brought joy to everyone around her with her sweet attitude and infectious laugh.”

“We will continue to grieve with Charvarius and Monique as we send them our love and support during this unimaginable time.”

Last March, Ward shared a carousel of photos of his daughter as he celebrated World Down Syndrome Day.

“Amani Joy Ward has been the best blessing I could have asked for. I used to think Down Syndrome was a disability, but now I realize it is just a gift from God,” Ward wrote in his post.

“Being Amani’s father has taught me to be patient and to surrender and let things happen. We had no control over whether she had trisomy 21, but we can control our attitude about that.”

Noting that his feelings of sadness and anger turned to joy, Ward added that she also had heart surgery after being diagnosed with Down syndrome.

“Amani is filled with pure joy and an infectious laugh. My baby makes me smile from ear to ear every time I see her. On November 17, 2022, a star was born. We love you AMANI JOY. 💛💙💛💙💛💙 💛💙 💛💙💛💙.”