Grammy-winning singer and American Idol star Mandisa tragically passed away at the age of 47. Fans and the music world mourned the loss, and many questions arose regarding the circumstances surrounding her death. Now, the official cause of death has been released, bringing clarity to the untimely passing of the beloved artist. According to an autopsy report obtained by PEOPLE, Mandisa died from complications of class III obesity.
Cause of Death: Complications of Class III Obesity
The autopsy report revealed that Mandisa’s manner of death was natural, with the direct cause being complications arising from class III obesity. She was discovered at her home on April 18 by friends, and the report indicated she had been last seen alive approximately three weeks prior.
Class III obesity, formerly known as morbid obesity, is defined by the Cleveland Clinic as a condition where an individual has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher accompanied by obesity-related health conditions. This severe form of obesity carries significant health risks and can lead to various complications.
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Mandisa’s passing is a stark reminder of the serious health implications associated with severe obesity. While her death was determined to be natural, it underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the complexities of this condition.
Mandisa’s Rise to Fame and Musical Journey
Before her passing, Mandisa was widely recognized for her powerful voice and inspiring music. Her journey to fame began on season 5 of American Idol, where she captivated audiences and finished in the top 9 alongside other notable talents. Her time on American Idol launched her into the spotlight and paved the way for a successful music career.
In 2007, Mandisa released her debut album, True Beauty, which remarkably debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart. This achievement marked her as the first new female artist to reach this milestone in the chart’s history. The album also garnered her first Grammy nomination, setting the stage for further accolades.
Throughout her career, Mandisa released five additional albums, solidifying her place in the contemporary Christian music scene. Her 2013 album, Overcomer, earned her a Grammy Award for best contemporary Christian music album the following year, a testament to her impactful music and message.
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Battles with Mental Health and Weight
Beyond her musical achievements, Mandisa was open about her personal struggles, particularly her battles with mental health and weight. The loss of her best friend and backup singer, Kisha Mitchell, in 2014 deeply affected her, leading to a period of profound depression.
In a 2017 interview with PEOPLE, Mandisa shared the extent of her struggles, revealing that she “sank into a deep pit of depression” after Kisha’s passing. This period of mental health challenges contributed to significant weight gain and a period of isolation.
Mandisa candidly spoke about the shame and isolation she experienced, admitting to becoming reclusive and relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms like excessive television watching and comfort food. She also bravely discussed experiencing suicidal thoughts during her darkest times.
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However, Mandisa’s story is also one of resilience and recovery. With the support of friends who staged an intervention and encouraged her to seek counseling, she began a journey towards healing and health. She focused on both her mental and physical well-being, making conscious choices to improve her health one step at a time.
Remembering Mandisa’s Impact
Mandisa’s legacy extends beyond her musical accomplishments. Her openness about her struggles with depression and weight, and her journey towards overcoming them, resonated with many. She channeled her experiences into her music and her memoir, Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy, offering messages of hope and encouragement to those facing similar challenges.
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While the official cause of death, complications of class III obesity, sheds light on the physical factors contributing to her passing, Mandisa’s life story is a testament to her talent, her faith, and her courage in facing personal battles. She will be remembered not only for her musical contributions but also for her vulnerability and her message of hope and resilience.
If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.
