Yesterday, Texans defensive end J.J. Watt proved, yet again, that athletes can be heros not just on the field, but off the field, as well.
According to SB Nation, Watt spent his Monday visiting with 11-year-old Manuel Jimenez, a victim of a drive-by shooting that took place in southeast Houston this past Friday morning. Although Jimenez, who was sleeping in his home during the shooting, survived, sadly, his younger brother, Moises, who was only six, did not.
In the wake of another tragic act of gun violence, it seemed that during Watt’s visit to the hospital was able to cheer up young Jimenez, if only for a few hours.
Elizabeth Garcia, the victims mother, told KPRC that playing Wii, signing autographs and offering words of encouragement to Jimenez during Watt’s visit really boosted the young boy’s spirits and motivated a fast recovery.
“(Manuel) said that it’s another life, that God gave him another chance and that he wants to be a football plater,” Garcia told KPRC.
Doctors have not determined when Jimenez will be allowed to leave the hospital, but a visit from Watt was definitely an encouraging one.
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*Featured Photo (above) credit to USA TODAY Sports
