Raquel Escalante, a cherished television presenter and model, has passed away at just 28 years old. Tributes have been flooding in for the adored star after it was confirmed that she tragically died from kidney failure, a consequence of her challenging battle with cervical cancer. The former beauty queen’s untimely death on Friday, November 28, came after she had made a heartfelt appeal for financial support to afford a critical surgery.

Earlier this year in February, Raquel received her devastating diagnosis. As she awaited a kidney transplant, she reached out to her 88,000 Instagram followers in January with an emotional request for help to cover the costly transplant procedure. Throughout her health journey, Raquel shared updates on her social media, including a recent poignant post featuring a glamorous photoshoot image. She wrote, “I’m not a model in a photo. I am a woman who has experienced pain, faced fear, and still chooses to keep shining.”

She continued, “This is me: body, soul, and spirit in God’s hands. And if this image touches your heart, let it be a reminder that you too can rise, over and over again.”

Raquel’s career blossomed after her success in modeling, leading her to transition into television where she became a beloved figure on TV Azteca Guate.

In a touching tribute, a spokesperson from the channel expressed, “The TV Azteca Guate family stands in solidarity with her parents, loved ones, friends, and fans, sharing in this moment of deep sorrow.”

“We thank Raquel for her dedication, her ever-present smile, and for illuminating our screens with a talent that will forever remain in our memory. Rest in peace, Raquel Escalante – your legacy will live forever in Guatemala’s heart.”

Heartbroken fans flocked to social media to pay tribute to Raquel, as one penned: “Just seen, this so so sad story, beautiful young lady didn’t deserve this. fly high, RAQUEL.”

Another echoed: “Rest is peace warrior, you won’t suffer anymore,” as a third added: “You are in a better place, my queen.”

“Rest in peace, Raquel. Your fight, your strength and the way you smile even in difficult times will never be forgotten. Today, heaven receives a brave woman, and here your memory will live on in everyone who loved you. Thank you for all that you were,” one fan stated.

In addition to fronting TV Azteca Guate, the beloved star was also a popular host on Qué Chilero, following her participation in numerous national and international competitions, most notably the Miss Tourism World finals in China in 2017.