Jose Fernández's mother took some time to thank the fans of Miami for their love and support in a letter shared by the Miami Herald.
"I’ve been sustained by your love for my son. As his mother, thank you for that blessing. On behalf of my family, especially my mother, thank you for your prayers for him, Maria, and my granddaughter in her womb. I want to thank the community for supporting us in this, the most difficult moment of our lives. The love we’ve received helps us cope with this harsh reality," Martiza Gómez Fernández said towards the start of the letter.
Fernández passed away suddenly on September 25th in a boating accident. The 24-year old was the ace of the staff for the Miami Marlins, but he represented so much more to the team and the city. In his short time, Fernandez captivated people and brought joy to those around him. The tributes since his untimely death have been far and wide.
"Our comfort that night was everyone’s expression of love. It gave us strength. I also want to thank the Marlins, local authorities, the Miami-Dade Police and City of Miami Police Departments, St. Brendan’s, the clergy, musicians and choir, the media, and all who worked to offer my son a beautiful farewell. I want to thank Caballero Rivero Funeral Home and all who sent flowers and contributions to JDF16 Foundation. I want to thank MLB for all the tributes for my son," Fernández continued.
While he was alive, many were not aware of just how active Fernández was in the community. The pitcher dazzled on the mound, but he also made a difference in charity.
"My son was always thinking about how to help others. He had passion for helping children with cancer through Live Like Bella. He loved to engage with young people and inspire their future. He shared moments with Sabrina, a young lady with Down syndrome, to bring a smile to her face. He spent time with the older generation to connect with his roots," his mother noted in the letter.
Replacing Fernández on the roster will be difficult for Miami, while replacing his spirit and energy around the community will be an impossible task. What Fernandez brought to the ballpark every day and to the city is something that is rare in this day and age.
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"And, a final request on behalf of my family: Live out the legacy of my son, José Fernández. Laugh like he did. Live joyfully the way he did. And I ask every little and major leaguer alike to enjoy the game the way he did. Let us continue to love Cuba and the United States as he did. Thank you for loving him, not forgetting him, and keeping his legacy alive," Fernández added towards the end of the letter.
The Marlins will likely hold more tributes and a possible retirement ceremony for Fernandez's number in 2017.
