Frankie Abernathy, a castmate on "Real World San Diego," died June 9 of cystic fibrosis, MTV.com reports. She was 25.
Abernathy openly discussed her illness on her season of the MTV reality show. She was diagnosed with the hereditary disease at age 3.
In addition to her fight with cystic fibrosis, Abernathy was a memorable cast member in numerous ways. Her phobia of large boats led to problems because the roommates' group job involved working and sailing on a tour boat in San Diego Bay. In one scene, fellow castmates had to throw a jacket over her head to walk her past boats.
Story continues below ↓advertisement
She was also remembered for announcing "I'm too punk rock for this," a quote that was quickly picked up as a favorite by fans of the show.
Abernathy was unhappy on the show, and left before the final episodes were aired. In one scene, she intentionally cut herself with a kitchen knife. Her mother, Abbie Hunter, reports that numerous viewers wrote and thanked her for drawing attention to those who cut themselves.
Abernathy's death was unexpected. Her mother told MTV, "She was doing fine, and we really don't know very much yet. It still was kind of a shock, and it just wasn't how we figured things would go. It seems like her little body just gave out."
MTV reports that, in addition to her mother, she is survived by her stepfather, sister and father.
Ow. So sad.
