Five-year-old Trevin Dilfer dies of heart disease

KIRKLAND, Wash. -- Trevin Dilfer, the 5-year-old son of Seattle Seahawks quarterback Trent Dilfer , died Sunday in California after a 40-day battle with heart disease.

The boy's parents and three sisters were at his bedside at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford University.

"Trevin was a very brave young boy and we are comforted in knowing that as a child of God he has returned to his maker," the family said in a statement. "We grieve, but not as those without hope."

The Dilfers thanked supporters and hospital staff while requesting privacy, and a family spokesman said there would be no additional comment. Team president Bob Whitsitt said the organization was "deeply saddened" by the news.

Services were pending.

Trent Dilfer played for the Baltimore Ravens when they won the 2000 Super Bowl, joining the Seahawks in August 2001. He missed the second half of last season with a torn Achilles' tendon.

AP NEWS
The Associated Press News Service

Copyright 2003, The Associated Press, All Rights Reserved