As a Black female voice in media, Ananda Lewis’s impact broke many invisible barriers, challenging stereotypes and paving the way for the generation that followed.

CNN anchor Sara Sidner and CNN correspondent Stephanie Elam tearfully mourned the death of their close friend, former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis.

Ananda Lewis, a former MTV VJ, has died after a battle with stage 4 breast cancer. She was 52. Lewis’ sister, Lakshmi, shared the news of her death on Facebook, writing, “She’s free, and in His heavenly arms. Lord, rest her soul.” Lakshmi also told TMZ that Lewis died Wednesday morning at her home in Los Angeles after battling cancer for six years.