Lisa Koppel, wife of singer Daniel ‘Danny K’ Koppel, had hoped to use her cancer journey to raise awareness of the disease and encourage early detection.

She never got that opportunity, but in a statement released by her family on today (August 11), they confirmed they would carry that purpose forward in her name.

News of the 41-year-old’s death was confirmed yesterday (August 10), by Danny’s mother, Pam.

Pam told media outlets that the family would not be issuing a formal public statement and that the circumstances surrounding Lisa’s death would remain private.

Unconfirmed reports initially suggested that Lisa had died from breast cancer, an assumption made because she had chosen to keep her illness private.

“She never wanted pity, attention or sympathy. Above all, she wanted to protect her children and preserve their happiness and innocence for as long as possible,” her family said.

The family has now decided to reveal that Lisa had been privately battling colorectal cancer for nearly three years.

“Lisa was diagnosed in November 2023. From that moment, she fought with extraordinary strength and determination. Together with her family, she searched for hope in South Africa and around the world, pursuing every treatment and every opportunity available to her. Tragically, despite everything, she could not be saved.”

According to research published in the journal Gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening was traditionally recommended from the age of 50. However, the disease is increasingly affecting younger people and international guidelines now recommend routine screening from age 45 for people at average risk.

This is also why the family chose to share Lisa’s diagnosis now, with one important purpose: Raising awareness.

“Lisa’s illness will never define her. She will be remembered for the way she lived and loved: With kindness, humility, courage and an unwavering devotion to the people who meant everything to her.”

Lisa leaves behind her husband, Danny, their three children, and a wide circle of family and friends.

No funeral arrangements have been released yet.

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