“He chose to keep his fight private after being diagnosed in 2019”
The fashion icon spent two years battling a rare and aggressive cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to keep his battle private after being diagnosed in 2019. He underwent numerous severe treatments, while continuing to work for several important fashion, art and culture organizations,” writes his relatives. “His work ethic, infinite curiosity and optimism have never wavered.”
In a statement, Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy boss Bernard Arnault said he was shocked by the news. “Virgil was not only a genius designer and a visionary, he was also a man of beautiful soul and great wisdom.”
Abloh had been working at Louis Vuitton since 2018, as the first black artistic director. He was also creative director of Kanye West and owner of his own label Off-White. Abloh leaves behind his wife Shannon and his children Lowe and Gray.
Abloh learned about the terrible diagnosis in 2019. He underwent difficult treatment. Medical procedures did not stop the fashion designer from continuing to work. He went on to lead important projects in the fields of fashion, art and culture. The native of the American city of Rockford did not advertise serious health problems.