The Jonas brothers, including singer-actor Nick Jonas and his brothers, are mourning the heartbreaking loss of their childhood friend and neighbour, Maya Kibbel. She reportedly passed away at the age of 30 after battling a rare genetic disorder, Wilson`s disease.
Nick Jonas` childhood friend and `sister` Maya Kibbel dies
The tragic news of Maya`s passing was shared by her mother in an emotional post on Instagram. She revealed that her daughter had been fighting Wilson’s disease for a long time. In her post, Maya’s mother described the painful journey her daughter endured while battling the rare illness. “It is with great sorrow that I have to post this sad news. Maya had been suffering from a rare disease called Wilson’s disease. She fought hard, but her body gave out,” she wrote.
“Early on 3/7, she collapsed, and her heart and lungs stopped working. It was too late, and she passed away in the ER. She had suffered so much that often she would cry herself to sleep due to her pain. But now she has entered into Heaven where she can be with her daddy with no more pain or tears,” the mother added.
She further shared, “Those of you who knew her and can’t believe she is gone, please know she is in the best place ever! I know she is watching over all of you from up above. Thank you to all those who loved and cared for her while she was still here. As her mom of 30 years, I miss her terribly and am heartbroken. My comfort is knowing she is no longer suffering. Love and prayers to you all.”
Wilson’s disease is a rare inherited disorder that stops the body from properly removing excess copper. As a result, copper builds up in organs such as the liver, brain and eyes, potentially leading to severe and life-threatening complications. In some cases, the condition can cause acute liver failure or cirrhosis, sometimes requiring a liver transplant.
Jonas family`s relations with Maya
Maya Kibbel reportedly shared a close bond with the Jonas Brothers, namely, Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas and Nick Jonas. As kids, they grew up together in the neighbourhood and were close childhood friends. The family affectionately referred to her as their “sister.”
Nick Jonas’ wife, actor Priyanka Chopra, is also reportedly close to Maya and the extended Jonas family.
