49ers Fans Embrace Preseason with Hope and a Mother's Resilience

Excitement filled the air as the San Francisco 49ers launched their preseason against the Denver Broncos, igniting dreams of a Super Bowl run among fans. This enthusiasm comes despite last season's playoff absence, showcasing the unwavering spirit of the 49ers faithful.

Lori Garmany, a devoted superfan, stood out in the crowd, her joy tinged with personal heartache. "This is my first day that I've been out all day from the hospital," she shared, reflecting on her recent struggles. "I would feel so guilty. But all three of my boys were like, 'Mom, we're here at the hospital with him. You go, enjoy yourself.'" Her words resonated deeply, revealing the strength of family bonds in tough times.

For over two months, Garmany has been at Valley Medical Center supporting her son Jeff, who suffered life-altering injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by a hit-and-run driver. "He was left on the ground to die. Thank God he's alive," she expressed, her voice a mix of gratitude and sorrow. "We give all our glory to God. And he actually is moving some fingers, some toes. So we're praying for a miracle."

Saturday's game provided Garmany with a much-needed respite from hospital life. Arriving early in her red 49ers-themed car, she was among the first fans to enter Levi's Stadium. "I just met Robert, I just met these guys today," she said, her smile brightening the atmosphere. "You can come to a 49er tailgating, and you can have a family."

The camaraderie among fans was palpable throughout the stadium, with many expressing optimism despite last year's challenges. Jesse Mendez exclaimed, "I've been waiting since we walked out here the last game. It's here. I'm ready to go. I'm ready to get out there to scream and yell."

Cruz Salazar added humorously, "I'm happy. All my Sundays are booked. Don't call me, don't text me — I'm not home." The anticipation was infectious as fans envisioned their team making a triumphant return.

With Levi's Stadium set to host this season's Super Bowl, dreams of victory danced in the minds of many. "It's a dream come true if we do win a Super Bowl here," Jose Salazar remarked, while Mendez echoed his sentiment: "To have home-field advantage for the Super Bowl would be something else."

Garmany held onto hope for both her team and her son's recovery. "Mark my words, we are going to take the season, we are going to come back with a vengeance and we're going to win this Super Bowl for The City of Santa Clara and the Bay," she declared passionately.

Meanwhile, Jeff and his brothers planned to cheer for the 49ers from his hospital room, anticipating a lively atmosphere as they supported their team from afar. Garmany chuckled at the thought of it getting loud in there.