Aaron Hernandez's Fiancée Celebrates Daughter Avielle's 11th Birthday: 'Just Like Your Daddy'
The late NFL star shared a birthday with his only child
Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez is celebrating a special milestone for her little girl.
On Monday, late NFL star Aaron Hernandez's fiancée celebrated as their daughter, Avielle, turned 11. Sharing a photo collage of the little one on Instagram, along with a video from her birthday celebration, Jenkins-Hernandez reflected on the special moment in her daughter's life.
"Happy Birthday my Beanie ! You have been such an inspiration to watch grow. Your dedication and hard work is something I’ll always admire - first one in , last one out ( just like your daddy," the proud mom wrote.
"Keep being the amazing young lady you are and never lose that smile ! Your sister and I love you more than you’ll ever know . Daddy would be so proud . We love you and truly hope your wishes are met on your 11th year . Xoxoxo @aviellejhernandez #birthdaygirl👑 #avielleturns11 #daddysbdaytwin #AHforever."
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Related: All About Aaron Hernandez's Daughter Avielle Janelle Hernandez
Hernandez and Jenkins-Hernandez were high school sweethearts who had been together for several years before his legal troubles began. The former tight end for the New England Patriots was arrested in 2013 for the murder of Odin Lloyd, a man dating Jenkins-Hernandez's sister. As he awaited trial, he was charged in connection with the fatal drive-by shootings of Daniel Jorge Correia de Abreu and Safiro Teixeira Furtado.
He was convicted of Lloyd's murder and sentenced to life in prison; he was acquitted of the double homicide in April 2017 but days later was found dead by suicide in his prison cell. He was 27.
The former Patriots tight end called Avielle's arrival "the best birthday gift," while talking to NBC Sports just days after becoming a dad.
"It's crazy … having a daughter on your birthday. Especially daddy's little girl," Hernandez later told reporters. "It's an honor. I couldn't ask for my life to be better at this point. My life is pretty good. Thank God for that. It's a blessing. I still feel blessed daily."
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