Joanne Borgella, the 32-year-old former “American Idol” contestant, died Saturday from a rare form of cancer. Her family posted the sad news on Facebook: ” With heavy hearts we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Joanne.”
The singer frequently had turned to the social media outlet to keep her fans appraised of her condition, since being diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2013 — keeping everyone informed as she underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Her last update was Sept. 23, as Borgella was preparing to undergo yet another treatment.
The New York native was a finalist in Season 7 of “American Idol” in 2008 — being among the final Top 12 women. She had previously won the first season of “Mo’Nique’s Fat Chance” reality show in 2005 — winning as “Miss F.A.T.” Also a plus-size model, Borgella had been signed by the famous Wilhelmina Modeling Agency in New York City.
