Hong Kong pop star and actress, CoCo Lee, has taken her life at the age of 48.
She was found in her home unconscious from an apparent suicide attempt.
She was then rushed to Queen Mary Hospital on 2 July 2023, where she fell into a coma shortly afterwards.
Despite the best efforts of the hospital team to rescue and treat her from her coma, CoCo sadly passed away on 5 July 2023.
Gone Too Soon
CoCo Lee was a shining star in not only Hong Kong’s entertainment scene but internationally as well.
She was a musician, actress, dancer and producer.
She was the first Chinese singer to have made an impact on the international stage, performing at the Academy Awards 2021.
Her music and art has touched millions of lives across the world and will continue to do so for generations to come.
CoCo was known in many Asian households as the voice of Fa Mulan in Disney’s 1998 animated film, Mulan (Taiwanese version).
She was invited to sing Reflection on the soundtrack for the live adaptation of Mulan (2020) too.
Her two sisters, Carol and Nancy, have since taken to social media to deliver the devastating news and express their deepest sorrow.
They ended their heartfelt message with: “Although CoCo stays in the world for not long a time, her rays of light will last forever!”
The Silent Killer
Depression has taught us again and again that it does not discriminate.
Whether you’re rich or poor, young or old, male or female, anyone can suffer from suicidal thoughts.
It’s important for parents, caregivers, siblings, friends, and yes, even co-workers and employers, to recognise the signs of depression and take action.
Here are some common symptoms of depression that you should take note of: changes in behaviour, irritability, low energy or loss of interest in hobbies.
Additionally, low motivation, missed work days or withdrawal from social interaction.
Also look out for a loss of appetite, poor sleep, difficulty concentration or unexplained weight loss.
Conversely, someone who is already planning suicide can have almost the opposite symptoms.
They can experience a positive mood, reconnecting with old friends, going out for celebrations, spending quality time with loved ones.
This is their way of tying loose ends and establishing positive memories with people before their death.
They may even start giving things away, updating their will and making other arrangements.
So be sure to notice these signs.
Depressed people who have been sad for a long while and suddenly become happy is not always a sign of recovery.
It may be their way of saying goodbye.
Break the Cycle
If you or someone you know may be struggling from suicidal thoughts, call these suicide prevention hotlines:
- Befrienders: 03-76272929 / 03–79568144 or 03–79568145
- Malaysia Mental Health Association: 03 2780 6803
- Mercy Malaysia: 03-29359935
- Talian Kasih: 15999
- Buddy Bear: 03–9779 5550 (for children)
- Lifeline Association: 03–42657995 011–3157 1495 / 016–720 1495
These hotlines provide over the phone counselling and moral support during dark times.
Malaysia still has a long way to go when it comes to mental health services.
However, they are making strides in helping citizens get the professional help they need.
While Lee is not Malaysian, her death has definitely shocked the world. Her fans come from all over the globe and are no doubt grieving this huge loss.
Hopefully this will be the final wakeup call for not only our country but others, to improve their mental health services.
Know that there’s always help around the corner.
Never hesitate to reach out.
From all of us here at Motherhood, we wish CoCo’s family and loved ones our deepest condolences.
Rest in peace, CoCo. You will be dearly missed.
We will keep you in our memories with Before I Fall in Love playing on loop. Your golden voice will forever be etched in our hearts.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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