Author Zoleka Zobuhle Mandela has sadly passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer.
On Monday, 18 September, the granddaughter of Nelson and Winnie Mandela was admitted into hospital for ongoing treatment for metastatic cancer to the hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain, and spinal cord.
“Recent scans revealed significant disease progression including fibrosis in the lungs as well as several emboli,” read a statement shared on Instagram by the family’s spokesperson Zwelabo Mandela.
“Zoleka passed away on the evening of Monday, September 25th, surrounded by friends and family. Our sincerest gratitude to the medical team that took care of her.”
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Many people flooded Zoleka’s comments section with messages of love and condolences.
Media personality Somizi wrote, “What a great reunion it’s going to be on the other side. With mama Gogo mkhulu and daughter. It hits hard here on earth but it’s a different feeling on the other side. ❤️.”
Jamali group member Mariechan Luiters also took to the comments section, writing, “? What a woman, mother, warrior and angel. She fought hard but her spirit remained vibrant and happy. Love you Queen, rest easy in the arms of the Almighty ❤️.”
Zoleka’s final Instagram post was posted a day before she was admitted to hospital. She shared that a CT showed that she had blood clots and fibrosis in her lung. “This explains the chest pains I had been feeling. My medical oncologist has recommended blood thinners and oral chemo” she shared.”
She remained positive, continuing, “On the upside, I’m incredibly grateful that I am still treatable! ??.”
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