Former child star Daveigh Chase, best known for voicing Lilo in Disney's Lilo & Stitch and starring in The Ring, died of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the Los Angeles coroner's office confirmed. She was 35.
Cause of death details
The coroner ruled that Chase, who also went by Daveigh Schwallier, died on June 17 in Los Angeles. The primary cause was AIDS, a collection of serious illnesses caused by HIV. A secondary cause was listed as 'chronic polysubstance use,' defined as dependence on multiple drugs or substances used simultaneously or within a short period.
Her father, John David Schwallier, told the New York Times that Chase had struggled with drug addiction and had been homeless since age 13. They had been estranged for many years.
Final months and health decline
In the weeks before her death, Chase faced severe health problems. She was hospitalized for severe malnutrition after extreme weight loss. While in hospital, her condition deteriorated, and she was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis and several severe systemic bloodstream infections. At that time, doctors informed her she had AIDS and had little time to live.
Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover rising medical expenses. On the page, he wrote: 'After a difficult childhood and a painful falling out with her family, Daveigh was bullied and struggled to find safety and happiness in downtown LA. When we met, I promised to protect her and give her the love and comfort she deserved. Together, we found moments of happiness and hope.'
Chase was pronounced dead just hours after the crowdfunding page went up, as her organs failed. Hernandez added that 'everything changed' when her bloodstream infections led to septic complications, causing her body to shut down.
Dispute over funeral arrangements
Following her death, a dispute emerged. Chase's father and her former manager, John Ryan, instructed people not to donate to Hernandez's fundraiser, insisting that the family would independently arrange her funeral and cremation, which Hernandez had claimed would be paid for using donations.
Former colleagues and friends have paid tribute, with fans reminiscing about her role in their 'childhood memories.'
