Model Lucy Markovic Dies Aged 27 After Battling Brain Condition
Australian model Lucy Markovic, who rose to fame as runner-up on Australia’s Next Top Model, has died aged 27 after battling a brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM). According to a report from the ABC, Markovic’s death was announced via an Instagram story in the early hours of Friday morning.
Markovic had been open about her health condition on social media, posting in March that she was due to undergo surgery to remove an AVM "the size of a golf ball". However, her surgery was postponed from March 26 to April 2. On Thursday night, a story posted to her Instagram account said the 27-year-old was "battling for her life". The post, which was reported by the ABC, stated that Markovic was at peace, surrounded by her family.
Markovic’s talent agency, Elite Model Management, confirmed her death a few hours later, paying tribute to the model as a "shining light". "Modelling was one of Lucy’s dreams, and we are deeply honoured to have been part of that journey with her," the company said. "She brought elegance, strength, and beauty to her work. But more than that, she brought herself — her warmth, her laughter, her light." As reported by the ABC, the agency also expressed their condolences to Markovic’s family and friends.
The fashion world has paid tribute to Markovic, with Donatella Versace, former creative director of Versace, reposting tributes to Markovic on Instagram. "I am so sorry to hear the news," Versace said. "Rest in peace darling girl." Markovic had worked with several high-profile brands, including Versace, Armani, and Victoria Beckham. According to the ABC, Markovic appeared on season nine of Australia’s Next Top Model in 2015, when she was just 17.
A brain arteriovenous malformation is a "tangled mesh of abnormal blood vessels" in the brain, according to the Brain Foundation’s website. These abnormalities form before a person is born. AVMs can cause bleeding on the brain, which is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalisation. Symptoms of a bleeding AVM include seizures, vision changes, severe headaches, and muscle weakness. As reported by the ABC, it’s estimated that AVMs occur in three of every 10,000 people.
Markovic had been open about her treatment on Instagram, posting in March that she was "Excited, thankful, scared, supported, hopeful" heading into her surgery. Followers have since flocked to the comments section to post tributes to the model. "I hope the family find some peace and comfort knowing she was so loved [and] admired by many people! She will be remembered," one posted. "It’s hard to understand how such a beautiful soul can be taken from this world, while so much darkness remains," another said. The article from the ABC provides further information on Markovic’s condition and her passing.
In a statement, Markovic’s family asked for space during this difficult time. The model will be remembered for her elegance, strength, and beauty, both on and off the runway. As noted by the ABC, Markovic’s legacy will live on through her work and the impact she had on those who knew her.
