Austin DeMello had an opportunity to visit with the San Francisco 49ers during practice last Friday as part of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. During the visit, he toured Levi's Stadium, received a customized jersey with his name on it, and got to meet numerous players and coaches prior to the team's practice.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan, quarterback Brian Hoyer, tackle Joe Staley, and linebacker NaVorro Bowman were quick to greet DeMello as he was pushed onto the practice field via a wheelchair. While he was clearly in pain from a headache that developed during his visit, DeMello did his best to interact with the players as they spoke with him.
"You're our hero, man," Shanahan told DeMello. "We appreciate you coming out here."
Shanahan went on to ask DeMello if he would be joining the team on the field for their home game against the Denver Broncos. "I know everyone here is going to be playing for you," Shanahan said.
While DeMello was presented with an autographed team helmet and took numerous photos with players, one exchange has quickly become a fan favorite and involves Marquise Goodwin. In a touching display, the wide receiver shared some of his own family experiences and offered words of encouragement to DeMello.
The special moment was caught during the latest episode of the 49ers' Hard Knocks-style online documentary, "Brick by Brick." You can watch the exchange between Goodwin and DeMello below.
This wasn't the first time that Goodwin took time out of his day to make a young fan happy. On July 31, Goodwin stopped and sang "Happy Birthday" to another young member of the Niner Faithful.
The 49ers signed Goodwin to a two-year deal on March 9 and hope the fast receiver can be a deep threat on offense. As it turns out, Goodwin is a great person as well.