Mama Cax, Haitian-American model and activist, dies aged 30; Rihanna and Jameela Jamil pay tributes
Haitian-American model and activist Mama Cax died December 16 at the age of 30. The announcement was made on Friday morning on her Instagram account.
The post read: “It is with deep regret and immense sadness that we announce the passing of Cacsmy Brutus (Mama Cax). Mama Cax spent the past week in the hospital, and unfortunately, on Monday, December 16, 2019, she left this world.”
“To say Cax was a fighter would be an understatement. As a cancer survivor, she had grown accustomed to taking on life's several challenges head-on and successfully. It is with that same grit (fervor) that she fought her last days on Earth," the post added. “We are aware that this loss will be felt globally and will not be easy for anyone. We ask that you please respect Cax’s privacy in this difficult time. We will make information about funeral arrangements public once they are finalized.”
Earlier this month, according to Refinery29, while in London for a photoshoot, Cax supposedly discovered blood clots in her leg, thigh, abdomen, and around a medical filter near her lungs that was implanted when she first battled cancer in her teens. The late-model was diagnosed with bone and lung cancer at just 14.
She underwent a hip replacement surgery that was unsuccessful and as a result, her right leg was amputated. On an Instagram post six weeks ago, the model wrote: “I started using social media to talk about my body insecurities after childhood cancer left me with a million scars (mostly emotional) and an amputated leg,” adding, “Life took me on a different ride but I still get to make an impact in the disability community.”
Many artists paid tribute to her. Actor Jameela Jamil wrote on Instagram, “Rest in power you complete legend. It was an honor getting to know you, and witnessing your power and elegance. Love to your family.”
The official account of Sephora, the French multinational chain of personal care and beauty stores, wrote in her comments: “We're heartbroken to hear this tragic news. She was a shining light in our community and a beautiful soul. The entire Sephora family is sending love and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Pop sensation Rihanna took to Twitter to pay her tribute. She wrote, “A queen. A force. A powerhouse beauty that brought her strength to the @savagexfenty stage this year inspiring so many across the globe. Rest In Power sis.”
Mama Cax’s official cause of death has not been announced as of yet.