Dillgin— 

YESTERDAY, Zandrea Bailey — Miss Universe Jamaica 2014 finalist — died in a New York hospital where she had been admitted for the past several weeks. She had been diagnosed with lupus in 2012.

“It is sad and we need to do something about this disease. First it was Elva, and now Zandrea,” Dillgin told the Jamaica Observer.

Zandrea Bailey

In December, the reggae singer established the Dillgin Lupus Foundation in Kingston to cater to the needs of persons living with lupus, as well as to educate the general public and create awareness about the disease. “As a nation, we need to bring further awareness to the plight of people living with the disease. I remember how shocked I was when I read about the disease after Elva’s death. I have a mother, and female relatives and I found that there is no definite way to avoid getting lupus or to predict whether you will get it,” Dillgin said.

Popular comedienne Elva Ruddock died on October 7, 2018 after battling the autoimmune disease.

Elva Ruddock

“By being aware of the disease, you can recognize symptoms quickly and be diagnosed and treated early, which can make a big difference. Lupus is a global health problem that affects people of all nationalities, races, ethnicities, genders and ages. Lupus can affect any part of the body in any way at any time, often with unpredictable and life-changing results. But we can help control its impact, so I am playing my part.” he said.

He said since officially signing the paperwork to establish the foundation, he has instructed his lawyer to also set up a bank account to solicit donations to help people living with the disease.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune rheumatic disease that occurs when the immune system of the body attacks its own cells and tissues. It results in damage to various sections of the body, such as the skin, joints and organs.

Dillgin will be having an official release party for his Money Tree EP at the Kingston 10 Sports Bar and Grill on Hillview Avenue on February 13.

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