After dropping several hit singles including “Make Em Say Uhh,” I am considered a Hip Hop icon who built an empire investing in fashion and real estate and spreading a message of racial equity through financial empowerment. Still, more recently, I am a grieving father of nine who tragically lost my daughter last month through an unfortunate accidental drug overdose.
My daughter Tytyana was only 29 years old and had her whole life ahead of her. There was so much she wanted to do. Unfortunately, she battled substance abuse for over a decade, and sadly, it ultimately took her life. She openly spoke about her addiction in the reality TV series, Growing Up Hip Hop; it was the episode where me and my son, Romeo Miller, fervently encouraged her to get the help she needed.
It is a sad time for me because it is not the natural order for a child to pass before their parents. It’s difficult because from the outside looking in, it seems like I have it all. I have made a lot of money. I have gained respect from the industry and fans. I have successfully helped many families transition into wealth through financial literacy and education. I have been an icon for families in the black community, but to know that this was a situation I was unable to change –helping my daughter beat substance abuse –it’s heartbreaking.
But through this tragedy, I am more determined to turn my test into a testimony. This has fueled me with more passion for getting out and helping other kids in their battle with mental health and addiction. This is a difficult transition for my family, and we are navigating through the tragic loss of TyTy. I am now dedicated to helping to bring awareness to the topics of mental health and substance abuse. I have recently been appointed as an Ambassador for NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness), and together we are working to make a significant difference within our community. My advice to other families dealing with similar situations: talk about it, seek help, and give love and support as a family unit. Keep God first in your lives, and never give up. This is an extremely challenging situation, but you have to try to save your loved ones.
