Georgia teen dies of cancer four years after mother’s breast cancer death

Stay connected via Google News

Follow us for the latest updates from Unheard Voices

19-year-old Kiera Shakoor has died after a courageous battle with cancer, just four years after her mother succumbed to breast cancer.

Remembering Kiera Shakoor

Shakoor passed away in the early hours of June 22, surrounded by her three older brothers, who had become her primary caregivers following her diagnosis. Her death marks the second devastating loss for the family in less than five years.

Cancer diagnosis

Kiera was first diagnosed with a rare nerve cancer while in high school. Despite her illness, she graduated and remained hopeful. Earlier this year, the cancer returned aggressively, spreading to her brain and throughout her body, according to family friend Jennifer Johnson, who organized a GoFundMe campaign to support her family.

“She radiated love,” Johnson wrote. “Even through her immense suffering, her faith never wavered; instead, it grew stronger, becoming an inspiration to everyone blessed with the privilege of knowing her.”

Mother’s brave fight with cancer

Kiera’s mother, Koya, died of breast cancer in 2021. Since then, Kiera and her brothers — Will, Koyahn, and Justin Smith — relied on each other, forming a tight-knit unit with no extended family support. Will, 24, left his job to care for Kiera full-time.

GoFundMe campaign created in honor of Kiera Shakoor

The GoFundMe is still raising funds to support Kiera’s family during this difficult time. As of this posting, the GoFundMe has raised nearly $12,000 of its $13,000 goal.

“No family should have to endure such profound loss while simultaneously worrying about how to provide a dignified farewell for a child who is their sibling,” Johnson said.

To learn more about Kiera and the campaign, visit the GoFundMe here.