Rapper Nelly's Sister Dies of Leukemia Mar 24, 2:06 PM EST
The Associated Press
ST. LOUIS -- The sister of Grammy-winning rapper Nelly died Thursday at a St. Louis hospital after a long battle with leukemia, the artist's publicist said.
Jacqueline "Jackie" Donahue, 31, had been diagnosed with leukemia on March 29, 2001. The cancer was in remission for nearly two years before she suffered a relapse, prompting Nelly to arrange a number of bone marrow drives. A match was never found.
Publicist Jane Higgins said Donahue had worked as a stylist for Nelly.
A spokeswoman for Austin Layne Mortuary said funeral arrangements were pending.
In March 2003, Nelly and his sister formed a campaign called "Jes Us 4 Jackie" to find donors for Donahue and others, and to raise awareness about bone marrow donations.
Donahue's family said in a statement they were "deeply saddened" by her death and offered their thanks for those who had supported her and the bone marrow drives.
"We are very proud of her efforts to educate and raise awareness about the disease and the need for African-Americans to join the National Donor Registry," the family said.
"She will always be remembered for her loving spirit, energy and unshakable faith."
that makes me very sad.
-- Edited by tara t at 10:36, 2005-03-25
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I've seen him on lots of shows talking about trying to find a donor for his sister. My friends mom passed away last summer from leukemia. Doctors found she had it in april and she died in august. This disease really sneaks up on you and takes its toll quickly. I know this is a very sad time for him and his family.
That is so sad. I know he was very close to his sister and she was so young and had 2 kids of her own. I hope he continues to rally for bone marrow donors.
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