STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

‘Zen’s Light’: Nick Cannon Launches Pediatric Cancer Foundation In Honor Of Late Son

Zen died of brain cancer at just five months old in December 2021.

Nick Cannon and Alyssa Scott commemorated what would have been their late son’s first birthday with a foundation named in his honor, Zen’s Light.

Cannon announced on Thursday (June 23) the launch of “Zen’s Light,” a foundation to help families with pediatric healthcare and grief counseling. Zen died of brain cancer in December 2021. He was just 5 months old.

“June 23rd will forever be a day of celebration,” Cannon wrote alongside a picture of himself and Scott at a lighting ceremony. “A beautiful lighting ceremony to honor the life of an Angel. Zen’s birth has now transformed into ‘Zen’s Light.’ We are proud to announce his new foundation that will help so many others in this world.”

RELATED: Nick Cannon Confirms He Has More Children ‘On The Way’

He thanked everyone in attendance at the inaugural event, adding that he cannot wait until next year when he anticipates the Lighting Gala will grow “to help find a cure for pediatric cancer, further research, and help console more families during difficult times.”

In a separate Instagram post, Scott also lamented the loss of her son and expressed hope for a cure in the future.

“Happy heavenly birthday Zen,” she wrote next to a picture of the two of them. “At the root of all the emotions I have today there is insurmountable love. I always try my best to remain positive but right now I can’t help but cry out 'it’s not suppose to be like this.'"

She allowed herself to imagine the future if Zen had survived.

“In my mind I can see him smashing his cake and crawling around, tugging at my legs. But the reality is I will be the one to blow out his first candle. I will be wishing he was still here with us.”

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.