Mama Cax, the Haitian-American model and activist who blazed a trail for differently abled women in the fashion industry, has died. She was only 30. Her family confirmed the news on Instagram this morning, writing that Cax had spent a week in the hospital before passing away.
Born Cacsmy Brutus, Mama Cax was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 14 and was given only 3 weeks to live. Despite doctors predictions, she survived, but this horrific disease left a mark and subsequently Mama Cax had her right leg amputated.
But she didn't let that stop her from stepping into her calling. After overcoming the initial shock of losing a part of her body, she embraced her difference. As a model, she became known for her dynamic and head-turning prosthetic legs. It was then that she began blogging and became an award-winning blogger, advocate, motivational speaker and published model.
Mama Cax, used social media as a platform to talk about body positivity, but most importantly, dismantle the image of what people with disabilities should be or look like. Her innovative prosthetic leg and message of self-love has landed her features in magazine like: TeenVogue, Cosmopolitan, Essence Magazine, Glamour, Refinery29, ASOS Magazine,
“I recognize how lucky I am and that many can’t afford medical treatments and people with disabilities as a whole face unparalleled discrimination,” said Mama Cax to Bored Panda. “In many parts of the world, they are politically and socially excluded. I feel like I’m in a position to make a difference and one day be an advocate for people with disabilities.”
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When asked what kept her moving forward, she said “I think humanity or the lack thereof keeps me moving forward. Seeing all the kindness in the world and people who have supported me on my journey makes me feel like I shouldn’t give up.”
Mamma Cax had a blog about travel, food, and fashion.
Here are some of Mama Caxx's most inspirational quotes:
“Seeing all the kindness in the world and people who have supported me on my journey makes me feel like I shouldn’t give up”
“Accomplishing all the goals you set up for yourself will...
...be proof of your success.”
“If today doesn’t work the way you planned, let tomorrow be your do-over.”
“Scars, we can hate them all we want but at the end of the day they still remain part of us, they tell our stories of struggle and survival”
“As women we are accustomed to letting others dictate our worth. My advice to any young woman out there, know your worth, figure out what you want, set up a plan and go for it”
“For me, every day is an opportunity to make a difference and live a life with a purpose”
She will be missed. Rest in peace, Mama.
