Clemson Tigers

Bills LB Tony Steward's fiancee loses battle with cancer

Published Feb. 2, 2016 4:13 p.m. ET

Cameron DaSilva

Buffalo Bills linebacker Tony Steward lost his fiancée, Brittany Burns, to ovarian cancer Tuesday at the age of 26.

Steward called her "my everything since the day I laid eyes on you" in a heartbreaking Instagram post.

The Bills also saluted her in a statement on her passing.

Our deepest condolences go out to Tony Steward on the passing of his fiancée Brittany Burns. https://t.co/qtclp5sd9d pic.twitter.com/aTftHfqoKV
— Buffalo Bills (@buffalobills) February 2, 2016

Burns, who attended Clemson with Steward and was on the rowing team, was diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer on Dec. 9. Just a few days later, she and Steward were engaged.

“The Buffalo Bills are saddened to learn about the passing of Brittany Burns, the fiancée of linebacker Tony Steward. From the day Brittany arrived in Buffalo with Tony, she was an active member in the community through the Buffalo Bills Women’s Association. Our prayers and heartfelt condolences go out to Tony Steward and the family of Brittany Burns during this most difficult time.”

Following her diagnosis, the two started a campaign to support others with ovarian cancer called "Fight Like a Girl." During her battle with cancer, she was treated at the University of Pennsylvania.

Steward was a sixth-round pick of the Bills in the 2015 draft. He played in seven games this season, recording two tackles, before being placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a back injury. Several players sent Steward their condolences on Twitter.

Prayers for my brother this morning @Tony_theTiger7 my heart hurts bro. #ClemsonFamily lean on him your prayers are forever grateful.
— Stephone Anthony (@stephoneanthony) February 2, 2016