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Topics: NFL, Social Media
Phoebe Tonks
Marshawn Kneeland’s pregnant girlfriend Catalina Mancera has called upon fans to help her through the grieving process by collecting as many ‘memories’ of him as possible.
Following the Dallas Cowboys player’s tragic death earlier this month, Catalina has spoken out just twice since his passing, with the second time being accompanied by an earnest plea with fans to share their photo memories of her partner.
In a post shared on Facebook on Saturday, Mancera wrote: “Hi everyone, I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for all the love, prayers, and messages that have been sent my way.
"Your support has meant more to me than I can put into words during such a painful time.”
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"As I continue honoring Marshawn’s memory, I’m trying to gather as many photos and memories of him as possible.
"If you have any pictures of Marshawn whether they’re recent, old, funny, or meaningful. I would truly appreciate it if you could share them with me."
She then poignantly admitted: “Every photo helps me hold onto a piece of him and the beautiful impact he had on all of us.”
Concluding the post with another outpouring of thanks for all the messages of condolence she had received, Mancera added: "Thank you again for your kindness, your prayers, and for keeping my sweet baby in your hearts.
“It brings me comfort knowing how deeply he was loved.”
Kneeland sadly passed away on November 5, just two years into his dream job as a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys.
His cause of death appears to be suicide, and came just two days after he had scored a huge career milestone - his first NFL touchdown.
In the hours leading up to Kneeland’s death, Mancera herself had contacted the authorities to express her concerns about his well-being.
The Dallas Cowboys sadly confirmed his death on November 6, as they shared a statement with fans: "It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away.
"Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family."
In her own tribute to her late boyfriend, Mancera penned a heartfelt post which read: “My sweet baby, words could never express how broken I feel, you’re my everything.
“I’ll love you forever my beautiful angel.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in a mental health crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.