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The Associated Press

RIDGEWOOD, N.J. -- A daughter born to rap pioneer Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons and his wife, Justine, died shortly after delivery last week, an MTV spokesman said Wednesday.

Simmons issued a statement through the network, which airs his reality show, "Run's House," saying his wife "is doing fine." He thanked his supporters for their prayers and condolences.

"On Sept. 26, 2006, Victoria Anne Simmons for some unknown reason chose to come early and unfortunately did not survive," his statement said. "We must accept whatever is there and once you accept unconditionally, then everything is beautiful. Every pain has a purifying effect. So whatever comes your way, just be thankful. We see life in death and believe in the celebration of life in death."

The baby was delivered at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, according to MTV spokesman Graham James.

Simmons, brother of hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons, has five children. He was a founding member of pioneering rap group Run-DMC.