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Hundreds Mourn Aliquippa Football Player Who Lost Battle With Cancer

ALIQUIPPA (KDKA) -- Hundreds came together Monday night to mourn the death of a 19-year-old football player who lost his battle with cancer last week.

DiMantae Bronaugh was a young man who made a big impact on his school and his community.

With so many people expected, visitation was held a local church rather than a funeral home.

Family, friends, even football players from at least one opposing team, came to pay respects at Wildwood Chapel in Aliquippa.

Bronaugh's family said they're very thankful for the support.

"I saw a lot of his teammates that already graduated," said Sonya Jeter, a cousin. "They're coming from college, and they're coming in as well. It just shows he's touched their hearts."

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Bronaugh was diagnosed with leukemia last year, but then it went into remission. The state gave him an extra year of eligibility to play again this year, but in August, he learned the leukemia was back.

A spokesperson for his family wants people to remember Bronaugh's upbeat attitude through it all.

"He never complained, never complained about it," said Jaimie Browder. "Always had a smile on his face. You never even knew he was hurting."

During Bronaugh's battle, the community began wearing t-shirts with the hashtag "24 Strong," his number on the football team. Many people paying their respects still wore them.

"We look forward to seeing a reunion with him in heaven and seeing him again," said Rev. Rich Liptak of the Wildwood Chapel.

The funeral will be held Tuesday.

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