Social media influencer Esther Thomas – known as Sunshine – has died, her family has confirmed.
The Nigerian content creator, who had nearly half a million followers across Instagram and Facebook, died suddenly on January 9 after undergoing surgery.
Confirming her passing in a statement shared online, Thomas’s family said: ‘We the family of Esther Thomas (A.K.A. Sunshine) with pain in our heart we regret to announce the sudden demise of our beloved sister and daughter.
‘We are trying to put things in place so we could put her to rest.’
Fellow social media star Chidera Madu shared details of Thomas’s passing.
He explained that she started experiencing stomach pain on December 28, which led to a hospital trip on New Year’s Day.
After a series of scans, Madu claimed that doctors determined Thomas had a fibroid that had ‘grown so big.’
Doctors reportedly recommended surgery to remove the fibroid and while they said that the procedure had been a success, Madu believes Sunshine experienced complications.
Social media influencer Esther Thomas – known as Sunshine – has died
Thomas’s family announced news of her death in a statement shared on Instagram
He shared his sentiments in a video posted to his Instagram.
According to Mayo Clinic, uterine fibroids are common growths of the uterus. They often appear during the years you’re usually able to get pregnant and give birth.
Uterine fibroids often aren’t dangerous, but they can cause pain, and they may lead to complications.
Thomas grew a huge fan base thanks to her comedic, skit-style videos.
She often collaborated with other Nigerian internet stars, including Ifedilimuo Ifeanyi Prosper, Lucy Antem and Madu.
Shocked fans are struggling to process news of Thomas’s death.
‘I’m still trying to believe this,’ one wrote.
‘Oh God this is so sad,’ penned another. ‘May her soul rest in peace.’
Thomas grew a huge online following thanks to her comedic videos
Her shocked fans are struggling to process news of her sudden passing
A third continued: ‘No way! What? Sunshine please…Ah this is heartbreaking. My sincere condolences to the family. May her soul rest in perfect peace.’
‘I have no words in the face of this sad news,’ added a fourth. ‘My deepest and sincerest condolences.
‘I wish you a lot of strength and courage during this very difficult time. My heart is broken, I still can’t believe it.’
Thomas’s family are making arrangements to lay her to rest.
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Beloved influencer Esther ‘Sunshine’ Thomas dies suddenly after surgery