The story of 17-year-old Ryan Howey is almost too tragic to comprehend. A football fan growing up, the youngster’s life was upended this past May when he was diagnosed with Glioblastoma — a deadly form of brain cancer.
It’s the same disease that took the life of American hero John McCain, among other high-profile individuals.
Washington Redskins tight end Vernon Davis learned of the diagnosis just recently and paid a visit to Howey last month.
“Howey was huge Redskins fan — and when Davis got word of the boy’s illness last month, the tight end hopped in a car and drove two hours to visit the sick boy,” TMZ Sports noted.
Sadly, Howey passed away just days later.
In hopes of doing something for the grieving Howey family, Davis decided to gift his mother, father and sister tickets to the Super Bowl in Atlanta next month. Davis told TMZ Sports that he wanted to “bring some joy to their spirits.”
Howey’s father, Michael, released this statement following his son’s death.
“On January 1st 2019, our beloved son and brother, Ryan the courageous warrior ran across the battlefield to be safely with Jesus,” Howey wrote on Ryan’s GoFundMe page. “We take time to grieve service details and a celebration of life will be announced. Thank you for your support.”
What a great gesture from Mr. Davis here. We all hope the best for this family. May a trip to the Super Bowl help them with the grieving process.