Fans and the family of Destinee LaShaee, also known as Matthew Vantress, are mourning their loss. LaShaee rose to notoriety after becoming the first transgender star of TLC’s My 600-Lb. Life.
Destinee was just 30 years old.
The reality star’s brother, Wayne Compton, confirmed their passing on Facebook on February 8. “No no no I’m sorry bro, I accept you for who you are,” Wayne wrote in a public Facebook post.
“I accept every flaw that comes with you, I’m sorry you felt alone, I’m sorry you felt you had nobody else to turn to, I’m sorry you felt you had no other option. Destiny wouldn’t have wanted this, lord why keep taking my siblings away, how much can I take?”
The cause of Destinee’s passing has not yet been made public. During their season 7 appearance on My 600-Lb. Life, Destinee was open about their mental health struggles and personal battle with food.
“I just lay here all day and wait for food. I don’t see any of my family and friends unless they come to see me,” Destinee said on the episode, according to E! News. “I feel like all I’m constantly doing is trying to escape my depression and pain at this point. Food is the only thing I can turn to do that. I can feel it killing me.”
Roughly a week before their unexpected passing, Destinee shared several photos of themselves in a tan floor-length dress. Many fans took to the comments section to offer their condolences.
“I’m so sad to hear this news,” one person wrote. “Been following you for some time, and even though we didn’t know each other, I was a supporter of yours. I pray you are at peace and with your siblings. Keeping your family uplifted in prayer.”
First Transgender Star of ‘My 600-Lb. Life’ Dies at the Age of 30
In July 2021, Destinee revealed their transformation from 628 pounds to 207 pounds. Along with the picture of their progress, Destinee gave their fans some advice—no matter how tough life gets, never give up.
“Trust Even I don’t believe it. I told the show I was Gonna be one of the biggest success stories they ever seen tho that experience messed me up mentally n with everything else I was dealing with I kept pushing I’m still pushing. Somebody wants to Give up Today Please don’t definitely take breaks there important but please never give up you are strong and you are beautiful at any size and any gender be your true self walk your truth n watch how strong n powerful you’ll be,” Destinee wrote.
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“I thank god for guiding me till this day and never leaving my side I’m beyond grateful n can’t wait to get rid of all this skin so I can truly be my authentic self. If u suffer from mental illness gender Dysphoria or anything your dealing with my advice from my experience will be to please seek help before you start your journey and you can also contact them for help at 1800-662-HELP (4357). Much love Everyone thanks to you all for being my side through this crazy ride.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with Destinee’s loved ones during this difficult time.
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