Former NFL player Bryan Braman sadly passed away at the age of 38 after battling cancer, despite initially choosing not to disclose his diagnosis to his daughters. A family friend revealed exclusively to PEOPLE that Braman had been fighting cancer for almost a year before his untimely death. The Super Bowl LII champion’s friend, Bill Jones, disclosed that Braman’s pride prevented him from sharing the news with his daughters and ex-wife initially, as he believed he could overcome the cancer on his own.
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Jones, who launched a GoFundMe campaign to aid Braman with his expenses, explained that the former athlete required financial support for his daily needs as his cancer treatment was not covered by insurance, and his earnings from his NFL career were tied up in investments. Braman, a father of two, shared his daughters with his ex-partner Cheyenne Fisher, who spoke to PEOPLE about the positive impact Braman had on their children, despite his struggle with cancer.
The close bond between Braman and his daughters was captured in a poignant image after he won the Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018, where he was photographed embracing his girls on the field. Fisher expressed that their daughters have found solace in knowing that their father is now in a better place, free from pain, serving as their guardian angel posthumously. The family friend, Jones, reminisced about Braman’s warm and caring nature, describing him as someone who lifted others up and spread love wherever he went.
Braman’s passing has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, with friends and family mourning the loss of a compassionate and generous individual. Despite his towering stature and professional success on the football field, Braman was remembered for his kind and loving personality, always willing to help others and see the best in people. His legacy extends beyond his achievements in sports, leaving a lasting impression on those who were fortunate enough to know him personally.
As news of Braman’s battle with cancer and his subsequent passing reverberates within the NFL community and among fans, tributes pour in for the late athlete. His courage in facing his illness privately and his unwavering determination to protect his loved ones from unnecessary worry are testaments to his character. Braman’s story serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength that individuals exhibit in the face of adversity, inspiring others to cherish their loved ones and embrace each moment with gratitude and love.
The outpouring of support and condolences following Braman’s passing underscores the impact he had on those around him, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion. As his friends and family come to terms with the loss of a beloved father, friend, and teammate, they find solace in the memories and moments shared with Braman, celebrating the remarkable individual he was both on and off the field. In the midst of grief, his spirit lives on through the lives he touched and the hearts he warmed, a beacon of light and love in a world that will always remember and honour his enduring legacy.