Henry Melton, the former Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman, is facing one of the most difficult battles of his life. At just 38 years old, Melton is recovering from a major and nearly fatal heart surgery, all while coping with the devastating loss of his mother, Cinithia Melton, who passed away earlier this week. The former Pro Bowl standout, known for his relentless play on the field, is now showing even greater resilience off it as he begins a long and uncertain road to recovery.
Melton’s journey took a frightening turn back in February, when he suddenly lost feeling in his legs. His daughter, Pey, acted quickly, calling 911 and likely saving his life. He was rushed to Northwestern Hospital in Chicago, where doctors diagnosed him with an aortic dissection — a life-threatening tear in the major artery leading from the heart. With his odds of survival at just 50/50, Melton underwent emergency open-heart surgery. The procedure saved his life, but it marked the beginning of a grueling new reality.
According to a GoFundMe set up by Melton’s family, he spent three weeks in the ICU and now faces long-term physical rehabilitation and ongoing medical care. Despite the seriousness of his condition, Melton is beginning to regain his strength step by step. But as he fights for his health, he’s also mourning the loss of the person who meant the most to him — his mother.
The heartbreaking update was shared by longtime Cowboys beat writer Clarence Hill Jr., who urged fans to keep Melton in their prayers. “Please put former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Henry Melton in your prayers,” Hill wrote on X. “He is still recovering from a near fatal heart issue that required major surgery… now he has to deal with the loss of his mother.”
Melton’s story resonates deeply within the football world. A fourth-round pick by the Chicago Bears in 2009, he carved out a solid seven-year NFL career with the Bears, Cowboys, Buccaneers, and Broncos. His breakout year came in 2012, when he earned Pro Bowl honors with Chicago. In 2014, he signed with the Cowboys and made an immediate impact, recording five sacks and helping lead the team to an NFC East title.
Now, Melton’s days are no longer defined by sacks and stat sheets, but by moments of courage, perseverance, and healing. The support pouring in from fans, teammates, and the NFL community has become a source of strength during this harrowing chapter.
Though the path ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: Henry Melton is still fighting — and he’s not alone.
