Brazilian influencer Rita Ephrem has died at the age of 31 after a six-year battle with a rare auto-inflammatory disease. The content creator, who amassed over 300,000 followers on Instagram, passed away on March 26.
Ephrem first experienced symptoms at age 25, including high fever, joint pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. She was later diagnosed with a rare auto-inflammatory condition, which she documented candidly on social media.
Her death was announced in a post on her Instagram profile, describing her journey as marked by 'great struggle, courage, and also much pain.' The tribute stated: 'She went to find rest in heaven, alongside the saints and Our Lady.'
On March 14, her family revealed she was in a critical state, suffering from an unidentified bacterial infection. They wrote: 'The medical team has yet to identify the bacteria responsible for the infection, which has made the treatment even more delicate.' She was intubated and treated with three antibiotics.
Fans paid tribute online, with one writing: 'Ritinha leaves an example of faith, resilience, strength and trust in God.' Another said: 'Go in peace my love, may Jesus receive you in a big hug full of love.'
