Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, 29, tragically passes away alongside her mother within one day

Just one day after Boston Ballet principal soloist Michaela Mabinty DePrince died at the age of 29, her adoptive mother Elaine DePrince also passed away from an unrelated illness. Elaine died during a routine procedure in preparation for surgery. The family spokesperson, Jess Volinski, confirmed the news on Facebook, stating that Michaela’s death had been especially difficult as they were also dealing with the loss of her adoptive mother. The deaths of Michaela and Elaine were unrelated. Elaine, who had lost three children previously, was spared the pain of experiencing the loss of a fourth child. Michaela, who was born in Sierra Leone during the civil war, had been adopted by Elaine along with her friend Mia due to rejection from other families based on her vitiligo. Michaela had a passion for ballet from a young age and went on to become the youngest ballerina at the Dance Theatre of Harlem in New York City at 17, eventually becoming a principal soloist at the Boston Ballet. Despite the tragic losses, the family has asked for privacy as they grieve. The cause of Michaela’s death has not been disclosed, but her love for ballet and her inspiring journey from Sierra Leone orphan to accomplished ballerina has touched the hearts of many.

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