Patriots Linebacker Jahlani Tavai and Partner Kalei Mau Share Heartbreaking Loss of Unborn Daughter

The New England Patriots community is rallying around linebacker Jahlani Tavai and his partner, professional volleyball player Kalei Mau, after the couple revealed they are grieving the devastating loss of their unborn daughter, Ka ua, following a sudden and extremely rare medical emergency.

In a deeply emotional Instagram post, Mau shared that on November 20 she was discovered unresponsive and was rushed to the hospital, where doctors placed her in a medically induced coma for six days as they fought to stabilize her. As her condition rapidly worsened, her organs began to fail, and physicians determined that a rare blood infection had spread to her placenta. Despite their efforts, the couple’s baby girl passed away in the womb.

Their daughter’s name, Ka ua, holds profound meaning in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi — “The Rain.” Mau explained that rain is a symbol of renewal and life in Hawaiian culture, writing, “With Ka ua, everything grows.” She shared that the day after she finally left the hospital, it began to rain, a moment that brought her a small measure of comfort, reminding her that their daughter would always remain close.

The tragedy struck quietly and privately, with the Patriots listing Tavai’s absence from the team’s November 23 road game against the Cincinnati Bengals simply as a “personal matter.” Only later did teammates and coaches share the emotional weight behind that absence. Several players dedicated that victory — and a touchdown by tight end Hunter Henry — to Tavai and his family.

When Tavai returned to the lineup in Week 13 against the New York Giants, head coach Mike Vrabel made a point to honor him, naming him a captain for the game. Vrabel praised Tavai’s strength and spoke about how the locker room had come together during an unimaginably painful time. Teammates described him as a man of quiet resilience and a respected presence whose hardship reminded everyone of the humanity behind the game.

The news has sparked an outpouring of prayers, condolences, and messages of support from fans, fellow athletes, and members of the NFL community. Many have expressed admiration for Mau’s honesty and courage in sharing her experience, shedding light on a rare and life-threatening medical condition that few are aware of.

In their message, Tavai and Mau emphasized gratitude for the medical teams who fought to save both mother and child, and for the strength they’ve received from family, friends, and faith.

As they continue to heal, the couple asked for privacy — and the sports world has responded with compassion.

Sending love, strength, and heartfelt condolences to Jahlani, Kalei, and their entire family.