HOUSTON – It was both a somber and uplifting moment Sunday for the family of Adrian Gonzalez, the late Texans super fan who passed away in September.
The 12-year-old Houston boy never got to realize his Make-A-Wish dream of meeting Texans star wide receiver Nico Collins. Gonzalez dealt with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and chronic lung conditions throughout his life.
His mother and his family attended the Texans’ win over the Las Vegas Raiders at NRG Stadium on what would have been Gonzalez’s 13th birthday. They got to live out his dream in his honor as they spent time with Collins on the sidelines.
They got to attend the game because of the generosity of longtime Texans fan Mike Blansett, AKA “Red Bull.” and the Texans when they became aware of the Gonzalez’s family.
It was an emotional moment for Collins as he learned that he was Adrian’s favorite player, so much so that he was buried wearing Collins’ No. 12 jersey.
“It was real sad, man,” Collins said. “My condolences to him and his family, his loved ones. Just means a lot that I was his favorite, and him being buried in my jersey.
“It’s just what his mom said, but it’s sad all around for a young kid, him and his family, his loved ones. So, my prayers to him and his family forever, man.”
“Adrian was a pleased, loving soul,” his mother, Viviana Gonzalez, told KPRC 2’s Gage Goulding. “Anybody who met him just fell in love with his genuine spirit and happiness for life.”
Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com
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