'Black Ink Crew: Chicago': Ryan helps Charmaine cope with her mother's death as fans pay tribute online
"We all die. The goal isn't to live forever, the goal is to create something that will" - Chuck Palahniuk.
Glenda Walker, Charmaine's mother, did exactly that in her life, which came to an abrupt end after her heart stopped. She had been on medications and dialysis, but her sudden passing came as a shock for everyone who knew and loved her because she had left an indelible mark on many lives.
Glenda left for a better place on October 23, 2019. But, the taped episode was aired only this January.
While 'Black Ink Crew: Chicago' season 5 was being filmed, Glenda knew she had tough times ahead of her, health-wise. And didn't shy away from sharing it with her daughter that her kidneys were giving up on her. “All the years of being on hypertension medication, it has affected my kidneys. I’m in stage 4 of renal failure. … When you get to that fifth stage, they have to put you on dialysis. There’s no reversing my situation. None. So it’s about moving forward," she had told Charmaine, who didn't know how to react at the time but assured her nothing would happen to her.
Emotionally, Charmaine is dealing with a lot in this week's episode. She lost a loved one and it's only getting tougher with time. Besides, the baby has been making sudden movements and she has no one by her side, not even Neek.
However, old friend Ryan was quick to arrive at the scene, with Don and Phor in tow. The way these two -- Ryan and Charmaine -- hugged, shared a pure moment that represents their age-old friendship, was magical. He sat by her side, pacified as she shared her concern about the baby and that she hasn't been able to process the loss fully because it might impact the baby.
Don and Phor, who stood outside Charmaine's home as they shot a text to her, left the scene after they figured she didn't want to see them. But, it was great to see how they handled the situation. Later, Don said he completely understands Charmaine and would be there for her no matter what.
Meanwhile, tributes for Glenda are pouring in on social media. "Mrs Glenda blessed so many people and gave some many people the real they needed to hear. @charmainej_tv I know it’s been a while but that pain never goes away so I still send my condolences. That spiritual connection will never leave so know she’ll guide you. #blackinkcrewCHI," a fan expressed.
"#BlackInkCrewCHI This was a hard one to watch, but the love, support and Unity I see going on is making it a lil better. Rest easy momma Glenda... you're light shines on," another posted. While a user tweeted: "I’m having a hard time getting thru, I know how much Mrs. Glenda meant to @charmainej_tv & I feel like we’ve all met her thru the tv. I’m recording tonight’s episode just in case I can’t get thru it #BlackInkCrewCHI #BlackInkCrew #BlackInkCHI #BlackInk #9Mag #2ndToInk."
Mama Glenda, rest in peace.
Catch all-new episodes of 'Black Ink Crew: Chicago' on VH1 every Wednesday, 8/7 c.