Former Miss Universe Chelsi Smith lost her year-long battle with liver cancer and passed away this month. She was 45.
The Texas native was best known for capturing the title of Miss Texas in 1995 and going on to win Miss USA and Miss Universe just months later. In doing so, Smith became the first and only woman from Texas to win both pageants, as well as the first American woman in 15 years to claim the Miss Universe title.
“Chelsi was our loving daughter, niece, and friend. We will miss her infectious laughter, joie de vivre, and free spirit. She left an indelible mark on all those who knew her.”
Chelsi was just as kind as she was beautiful. When asked how she, as an advisor, would change the First Lady’s image if asked for a consultation, Smith replied: “I would tell her not to change her image, actually. I believe very strongly in who I am, and I’ve seen 50 ladies tonight who believe very strongly in who they are, and I really think that she wouldn’t have made it as far as she has if she wouldn’t have been herself, so I really truly think she should stay exactly the way she is.” She became the seventh woman from her state to hold the Miss USA title and also won the Miss Congeniality award as she had at her state pageant, becoming the only Miss USA winner and Miss Texas USA in history to win this award.
The leading cause of liver cancer is cirrhosis due to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or alcohol.[4] Other causes include aflatoxin, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and liver flukes. The most common types are hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which makes up 80% of cases, and cholangiocarcinoma like the kind Chelsi had. The diagnosis may be supported by blood tests and medical imaging with confirmation by tissue biopsy.
Because liver cancer is an umbrella term for many types of cancer, the signs and symptoms depend on what type of cancer is present. Cholangiocarcinoma is associated with sweating, jaundice, abdominal pain, weight loss and…
… liver enlargement. Hepatocellular carcinoma is associated with abdominal mass, abdominal pain, emesis, anemia, back pain, jaundice, itching, weight loss and fever.
After becoming Miss USA, Smith traveled to Windhoek, Namibia to compete in the 1995 Miss Universe pageant, broadcast live from Windhoek Country Club on May 12, 1995. She was again the highest placed contestant after the preliminary competition, which propelled her into the top ten. Once again, Smith was among the final 3 contestants and went on to win the title ahead of first runner-up Manpreet Brar of India, becoming the first Miss USA to capture the Miss Universe crown in 15 years.
After her burial, the family added, “while we mourn the loss of this vivacious and kind-hearted woman, we also celebrate her remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to young women around the world that their dreams are possible through a loving heart and an enlightened mind.”
By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.
