The San Francisco 49ers do a lot of community work, a ton really. They have weekly events throughout the year where several players participate. Some of the regular participants include Ian Williams, Quintion Dial, Joe Staley, and Torrey Smith.
An organization that the 49ers works closely with is the Make-A-Wish foundation. Many likely know about Make-A-Wish, but for those that don't, they grant wishes to children that are dealing with or have overcome life threatening medical conditions. During OTAs, the 49ers hosted two such children. They were able to watch practice and meet the players after it concluded.
#49ers doing great work as always with their @MakeAWish kids at practice today. pic.twitter.com/LxCuUVnPab
— Jennifer Chan (@jenniferleechan) May 25, 2016
Nery, who is pictured above, suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, one of the 9 forms of the disease that is characterized by muscle degeneration which can cause frequent falls, trouble getting up and learning disabilities. It usually affects young boys.
Breaking it down with @NBowman53 @SFWish and the #49ers crew at OTAs today: #MakeAWish pic.twitter.com/LvaM8vCAnh
— Jennifer Chan (@jenniferleechan) May 25, 2016
Eli, who is pictured above in the huddle, has Ewing's sarcoma, an extremely rare form of cancer that occurs in children and young adults. It can cause bone pain and tenderness that usually begins in the legs, arms and pelvis. Treatments include chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.
What is really fantastic is the enthusiasm that the players show towards these kids. NaVorro Bowman and Quinton Patton led the team to meet these young survivors with huge smiles across their faces. You can't beat these feel good moments.
You can follow 49ers Community on Twitter for more information.