Joanne Borgella Of "American Idol" Dead At 32

Former "American Idol" contestant and plus-sized model Joanne Borgella, who won the first season of the "Mo'Nique's Fat Chance" pageant as "Miss F.A.T." in 2005, died of cancer on Saturday at 5:45 a.m. She was 32 years old.  



Borgella's family announced the sad news on facebook: "With heavy hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Joanne."

The singer was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2013, alerting fans in a number of facebook videos as she went through radiation and chemotherapy in the months that ensued. Her last update came on September 23, as she prepared for more treatment.

"It's a rare case because it's spread to my chest," Joanne shared during her first clip, "but it's really not about a stage (of disease). God is with me and I feel his presence every day. I just wanted to share this information with everyone to let them know what I'm going through and I'm going to update everyone every week as much as I can".

In its facebook statement on Saturday, Borgella's family claimed: "At an early age, Joanne made a choice to serve and trust the Lord; and since her diagnosis over a year ago, Joanne made a choice to also be a fighter and share her journey with the world."

"Her faith, courage and strength were unshaken throughout every obstacle she encountered," the family went on, noting: "Although our family is suffering with this great loss, we find comfort in the closeness Joanne shared with the Lord. We know her spirit still shines and will continue to live on in heaven."


R.I.P Joanne Borgella


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