Ronnie Hillman, a legend of American football, passed away from cancer at the young age of 31.
The Long Beach, California-born running back has previously suited up for the Dallas Cowboys, San Diego Chargers, Minnesota Vikings, and Denver Broncos.
He was chosen by the Denver Broncos in the 2012 NFL Draft, and in 2016 he helped them win Super Bowl 50.
His family posted a statement on social media saying, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the demise of our beloved son, brother, and father, Ronnie K Hillman Jr.
What Kind of Cancer Did Ronnie Hillman have?
Rare kidney cancer is called renal medullary carcinoma (RMC).
Four months after receiving a diagnosis of the rare disease in August 2022, the sportsman tragically went away on December 21.
RMC primarily affects young persons of African origin since they have sickle cell features that might result in sickling of the red blood cells, according to Rare Diseases.
NFL Star’s Family Announces His Death
On Thursday, Ronnie’s family posted on his Instagram profile about his tragic passing (December 22).
They claimed that Ronnie “transitioned today in the presence of his family and close friends in a gentle and serene manner.” We, as a family, are grateful for the prayers and good vibes that have already been sent.
They had given an update earlier that day in which they had disclosed his cancer diagnosis and stated that his therapy had failed.
The sportsman’s family stated: “Our beloved RJ is currently under Hospice Care where he is being kept comfortable and out of agony.”
“As a family, we have faith that is unstoppable and hope beyond hope. We also realise that God’s will is not always in accordance with our own, therefore as a family, we submit to his will.
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Denver Broncos pay tribute
The former Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman passed away unexpectedly, the team confirmed in a statement.
Ronnie “topped the Broncos in running during our Super Bowl 50 title season and was a vital player throughout the winningest four-year span in franchise history.”
They labeled him a “dynamic player and well-respected teammate” and described him as “soft-spoken with a pleasant grin and quiet passion”.
Our organization, which sends the Hillman family its deepest thoughts and condolences during this difficult time, says that Ronnie will be long remembered.
