Lion King child star dies
By Alexandra Heilbron on November 4, 2010 | 15 Comments
Shannon Skye Tavarez, 11, who began performing as Young Nala last September in The Lion King on Broadway, lost her fight with acute myeloid leukemia this week. She was diagnosed last April and received support from celebrities such as Rihanna and Beyoncé to find a bone marrow transplant. Following a bone marrow drive hosted by the Lion King cast, the number of new donors increased to 10,000, but doctors were unable to find a match. Shannon underwent a procedure with umbilical-cord blood from an anonymous donor as an alternative. Her mother told press: “Shannon’s strength and her happy, positive spirit will live on in our hearts and minds each day. Shannon’s dream was to perform on stage, and that she did. It is our hope that Shannon’s legacy will continue to inspire other brave children battling leukemia. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers.” A private memorial service is being planned.
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omg that’s so sad, she was a beautiful little girl. I’m glad so many people tried to help her.
Rest in peace little one.
my condolences to her friends an family. Very talented young girl.
Oh thats so sad. She was too young. May she rest in peace and may her memories live forever.
oh my goodness. So incredibly sad. I’m glad she spent her last year doing the thing she loved most.
Rest in Peace, and prayers to her family.
R.I.P Shannon
Poor little thing. Rest in peace, sweetie.
So sorry shes such a tiny and beautiful wee girl . Bless her family and all that ne her.
It just breaks your heart….
My prayers go to Shannon’s family. Rest in peace little one.
At least the world got a glimpse of the talented little girl.
It is really sad when a shining star is bright, makes her place among the stars. No more pain, no more sadness . . .only happiness that she is.
How sad to see such a beautiful and talented rising star fall. RIP Shannon.
So incredibly sad – condolences to her family.
It’s not such a shame when you really think about it; she was able to “light up the world”with her outstanding voice and got to perform for many people, making a “mark” I’m sure, and brought happiness to so many. It’s sad tho’, that they weren’t able to find a donor for her, however, she is now most likely another beautiful angel in Heaven, making beautiful music! I’m sure she has found Peace.Amen.