The death toll from the coronavirus pandemic sadly continues to rise, and one member of the NFL family has suffered a loss as a result.
On March 12, ESPN’s Jenna Laine reported that a family member of former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman was hospitalized and in critical condition after contracting COVID-19. She announced Saturday that the family member, Pittman’s uncle Sherman Pittman, ultimately died from the disease.
An update on this, as many of you responded to it and shared it…Former Bucs running back Michael Pittman’s uncle, Sherman Pittman, has passed away from COVID-19. He was 61. He had been in the hospital for three weeks. Mike wanted to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to you all. https://t.co/xNgl4e7Nq8
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) March 28, 2020
…Michael wanted to express how much he and his family sincerely appreciate all your prayers. It was his father’s younger brother. Please continue to pray for his family and so many others going through this right now.
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) March 28, 2020
Over a thousand Americans have died of COVID-19, and that toll continues to climb. Tragically, Pittman’s uncle did not get the miracle he needed.
Thus far, the pro athletes who have contracted the virus have suffered mild symptoms and, in some cases, none at all. The older relatives of some athletes have not been as fortunate. Hopefully we don’t hear any more stories like this, but as the virus spreads, it may be inevitable.
