Just hours before stepping onto the field against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes received devastating personal news—his grandfather, Randy, had entered hospice care.

The heartbreaking update was shared by Patrick’s mother, Randi Mahomes, through an emotional Instagram Story. Alongside a heartfelt photo with her father, she quoted Colossians 3:20: “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”

“My dad is in hospice, and I’m lost for words,” Randi wrote, expressing the depth of her sorrow.

This somber moment comes just months after Randy had been hospitalized. At that time, Randi had turned to her followers on X (formerly Twitter), asking for prayers for her father. “Prayer warriors, please pray for my daddy. He is in the hospital and is not well. His name is Randy,” she posted.

Despite his health struggles, Randy continued to cheer for Patrick from afar. Just weeks ago, Randi shared a touching photo of him watching one of Patrick’s games on TV—a poignant reminder of the strong bond within the Mahomes family and the pride they share in Patrick’s achievements.

Chiefs vs. Bills: A High-Stakes Matchup

As Patrick Mahomes prepares to take the field for the AFC Championship, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Kansas City Chiefs are set to face the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, January 6, with the winner advancing to the Super Bowl.

For the Chiefs, this matchup is an opportunity to secure their third consecutive Super Bowl appearance, a feat that highlights their dominance in recent years.

For Mahomes, it’s also a chance to showcase his leadership and resilience amidst the weight of personal challenges.

Mahomes on the Journey

In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Mahomes reflected on the journey that brought him to this point. “I have extreme appreciation just for the process of getting here,” he said.

He acknowledged that for some younger teammates, success might feel routine because they’ve only experienced winning seasons. “I like to make sure they know and appreciate this moment and having this opportunity because it doesn’t happen every year,” Mahomes explained.

He reminded his team that, while the Chiefs have made championship games feel almost routine, every season is unique, and nothing is guaranteed. “You start back level with everybody, and you have to go about your process and put in that work,” he added. “Every season’s different. You just appreciate being in this game, and you try to find a way to maximize it and try to get to the next one.”

Balancing Pain and Pressure

For Mahomes, balancing the emotional weight of his grandfather’s condition with the immense pressure of an AFC Championship game is no small feat. Yet, time and again, he has proven his ability to rise above adversity and lead his team.

As he takes the field, the unwavering support of his family, teammates, and fans will serve as a source of strength. Though Randy may not be physically present, his steadfast pride in Patrick will undoubtedly resonate as the Chiefs fight for a chance to reach the Super Bowl.

A Family’s Strength

The Mahomes family’s journey is a testament to their resilience and unity. From Randy’s quiet pride in his grandson to Randi’s unshakeable faith, their bond highlights the importance of family even in life’s most challenging moments.

As Patrick Mahomes leads the Kansas City Chiefs in one of the most pivotal games of the season, he carries with him not just the aspirations of his team and fans but the love and legacy of his family.