The ballet world is mourning the death of Dancing with the Stars’ Michaela Mabinty DePrince, an inspirational ballerina who beat staggering odds to become one of the world’s most famous dancers.
Michaela, an orphan from war-torn Sierra Leone, was a dancer with the Boston Ballet who gained widespread notoriety after starring in the 2011 documentary First Position. She died September 10 at only 29.
Adding to the family’s tragic loss, Michaela’s adoptive mom – who rescued Michaela from the filthy shelter where she was told she was “too ugly” to find a family – died only 24 hours later.
After her father was brutally killed in war-torn Sierra Leone and her mother died from fever, four-year-old Michaela Mabinty DePrince was abandoned by her uncle in a shelter where staff every day tried to break her spirit.
Known then as “Number 27” a young Michaela had little hope of finding a family as she had vitiligo, a condition that causes patches of skin to lose pigmentation.
The young girl, called “the devil child” because of her patchy skin, was told repeatedly that she was too ugly to be picked.
“We were all ranked from the most favored to the least, and I was at the very bottom for being rebellious and having a skin condition called vitiligo, which produces white freckles on my neck and chest,” Michaela said, adding she slept on a grass sleeping mat with “Number 26.”
Aside from the vomit-stained nightgown she was wearing, all she had was a magazine, which according to Glamour had (literally) blown onto her face. And on the cover was a ballerina en pointe – a dancer supporting all her body weight on the tips of her toes.
“The dancer looked beautiful and happy, that’s what caught my eye,” Michaela tells Glamour. “I wanted to be happy.”
And the crumpled old photo of the ballerina was the first thing she handed Elaine DePrince, who took her to her new home in New Jersey.
“There was so much love right away,” said Michaela, who over the next two decades would be the prima ballerina on the cover of magazines. “I had never been surrounded by something like that.”
‘My life is proof’
Michaela’s passion for dancing was ignited at a young age, and she pursued her dreams with remarkable dedication.
In 2011, Michaela became one of the stars of First Position, a documentary that followed six gifted dancers leading up to the competition for a place in the prestigious American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet (JKO)
She not only earned a spot but was also awarded a scholarship to study at JKO.
The same year the award-winning documentary was released, Michaela also appeared on Dancing with the Stars.
“My life is proof that no matter what situation you’re in, as long as you have a supportive family, you can achieve anything,” Michaela said.
In 2012, the talented ballerina joined the renowned Dance Theatre of Harlem, where she continued to shine as a rising star. Her exceptional talent and grace later led her to the Dutch National Ballet, where the War Child Ambassador further established herself as a formidable presence in the ballet world.
While she was living in Amsterdam and training for The Nutcracker, she received a call, inviting her to travel to New Orleans and dance in Beyonce’s hour-long video, Lemonade, which was released in 2016.
Speaking with the Wall Street Journal of meeting the pop sensation, Michaela said, “She walked up to me and said, ‘It’s such an honor to have you here.’ I was really cheesy and said, ‘The honor is mine.’ I was on cloud nine.”
‘Beacon of hope’
On September 10, her family released a heartbreaking message about the principal soloist with the Boston Ballet.
“Rest in Power,” the post starts about the dancer who died on September 10. “With pain in our hearts, we share the loss of star ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, whose artistry touched countless hearts and whose spirit inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet, and beyond.”
The Facebook post describes Michaela as an inspiration who “stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places.”
The cause of her death has not yet been released.
Mom ‘spared the pain’
Only 24 hours after Michaela’s sudden death, her doting adoptive mom Elaine DePrince died on September 11 “during a routine procedure in preparation for a surgery.”
A family statement on Facebook explains that at the time of Elaine’s death, she was unaware that her daughter had died.
“As unbelievable as it may seem, the two deaths were completely unrelated. The only way we can make sense of the senseless is that Elaine, who had already lost three children many years ago, was by the grace of God spared the pain of experiencing the loss of a fourth child.” The message continues, “What the family is going through right now is truly unimaginably painful. Grieving two family members who died within a 24-hour period is tragic and devastating. We continue to ask for privacy…”
Rest in peace Michaela and Elaine. Please share your thoughts with us and then share this story so we can all send a lot of love to the family and friends of this mother-daughter duo.
What should I do?
Mold isn’t just an ugly patch on your wall — it’s a silent threat that could be hiding in the corners of your home, affecting your health and your rights as a tenant. If you’ve spotted suspicious discoloration, noticed a musty smell, or experienced unexplained allergies at home, it’s time to dig deeper.
Let’s break down what mold really is, why wiping it away won’t cut it, and what steps you can take — legally and practically — to protect yourself when it shows up in your rental space.
What Is Mold and Why Does It Spread So Easily?
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist, humid environments. It spreads quickly when there’s excess moisture from leaks, poor ventilation, or condensation. That tiny black or green spot on your ceiling? It could be just the tip of the iceberg.
The real problem lies beneath the surface. Mold spores infiltrate porous materials like drywall, carpet, or wood — and once they settle in, they’re incredibly hard to remove without professional help.
Your home may look fine at first glance, but mold can quietly grow behind walls, under floors, or inside your HVAC system if moisture isn’t properly managed. Identifying the source of the dampness is key to stopping mold at its root.
Why Simply Cleaning Mold Isn’t Enough
Wiping visible mold away with bleach or cleaner might make it disappear — temporarily. But don’t let that fool you.
Here’s the problem: mold isn’t just a surface issue. If you don’t eliminate the underlying moisture, it’s going to come right back — often bigger and worse. Even worse, cleaning mold improperly can release airborne spores into your home, increasing your exposure and spreading contamination to new areas.
Video : What is Black Mold and What are the Symptoms of Black Mold Exposure – Mold Busters
Effective mold removal requires:
- Identifying the source of moisture (like a leak or lack of ventilation)
- Removing or replacing contaminated materials
- Disinfecting and drying the affected area thoroughly
Ignoring this process can lead to a vicious cycle of recurring mold and mounting health concerns.
Mold Exposure: What’s Really at Risk?
Let’s talk health. Breathing in mold spores over time can wreak havoc on your body — especially if you’re already sensitive to allergens.
Common symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion and sneezing
- Itchy eyes or skin rashes
- Persistent cough or wheezing
- Headaches and fatigue
For people with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems, mold exposure can trigger severe respiratory issues and even lung infections. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
So no — mold isn’t just an aesthetic issue. It’s a genuine health hazard, and it needs to be taken seriously.
Are Landlords Responsible for Mold? Absolutely.
If you’re renting and mold shows up, you’re probably wondering: Is it my responsibility, or the landlord’s?
The answer depends on the situation, but in most cases, landlords are legally required to maintain safe, habitable housing. That includes addressing mold issues caused by:
- Roof or plumbing leaks
- Faulty windows or insulation
- Poor ventilation systems
- Construction defects
They’re also required to act promptly once they’re made aware of the issue. As a tenant, you have every right to expect repairs and remediation when mold arises from structural or maintenance problems beyond your control.
What to Do If You Discover Mold in Your Rental
Finding mold can feel overwhelming — but don’t panic. Here’s how to handle it the smart way:
- Document everything. Take clear, dated photos of all mold spots and any water damage. Keep records of odors, health symptoms, and room conditions.
- Notify your landlord in writing. Be specific. Include photos and describe the issue, its location, and any impact on your living conditions.
- Request action. Politely but firmly ask for immediate remediation and repairs. Give a reasonable deadline for response.
- Keep copies. Save every email, message, and repair request. If it comes to legal action, documentation is your strongest ally.
How to Talk to Your Landlord About Mold
Your message doesn’t have to be confrontational — just clear and professional. Focus on facts: the health risk, the damage, and your rights. Here’s what to include:
- The date you noticed the mold
- Where it’s located
- How it’s affecting your health or home
- A request for inspection and professional treatment
If your landlord drags their feet or ignores the issue, you may need to escalate — either through local housing authorities or legal support.
When to Call in the Pros
Some mold situations are just too big or too hidden for DIY solutions. In these cases, it’s best to call a professional mold inspector or remediation company. They can:
- Locate hidden sources of moisture
- Assess the extent of contamination
- Safely remove mold and prevent it from spreading
If your landlord refuses to hire professionals, you may be able to file a formal complaint or even withhold rent, depending on your local tenant laws.
Know Your Rights as a Renter
Different states and cities have different laws, but most require landlords to provide a safe, habitable home. If they don’t address mold caused by poor maintenance or structural issues, you may have the right to:
- Break your lease early
- Seek rent reductions
- File a lawsuit for damages
- Contact a local housing authority
Always research tenant rights in your area and speak with a legal expert if you’re unsure.
How to Prevent Mold from Coming Back
Once the mold is gone, keeping it away means managing moisture and airflow in your space. Here are a few smart habits:
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens
- Run a dehumidifier in humid climates
- Fix leaks immediately
- Keep furniture slightly away from walls to allow air circulation
- Avoid overwatering houseplants
- Don’t let wet clothes or towels sit around
A few small changes can go a long way toward keeping your home mold-free for good.
Video : 1. When Mold in the Home Is a Problem (English)
Conclusion: Take Mold Seriously — And Take Control
Mold isn’t something to ignore or cover up. Whether you’re a tenant or a homeowner, it’s a warning sign that something’s wrong — and a direct threat to your health and comfort.
If you see mold, don’t wait. Act fast, document everything, and communicate clearly with your landlord. And if they won’t help? You’ve got rights — use them.
Because you deserve to live in a space that’s safe, clean, and healthy — not one where mold quietly threatens your health behind the walls. By staying informed, standing up for your rights, and taking action when needed, you’re not just protecting your home — you’re protecting your peace of mind.
So don’t settle for temporary fixes or vague promises. Demand real solutions. Whether it’s reaching out to your landlord, hiring professionals, or seeking legal support, taking the right steps today can prevent bigger problems tomorrow.
Mold may start small, but when ignored, it spreads — both in your home and in the impact it has on your life. Tackle it head-on, stay proactive, and remember: a healthy home isn’t a luxury — it’s a basic right.
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