Wife of Brazil's former president Marisa is brain dead
Da Silva had been hospitalized since January 24 with a brain haemorrhage due to a ruptured brain aneurism.
Marisa Leticia Lula da Silva
Recommended articles
"An absence of blood flow in the brain was identified," doctors at the Sirio-Libanes hospital said.
The family of Marisa Leticia Lula da Silva, 66, had authorized the donation of her organs and "procedures were begun for the donation," the hospital said in a statement.
Lula's family issued a statement thanking supporters for "all the expressions of sympathy and solidarity."
ADVERTISEMENT
A minute of silence was held in the lower house of Congress in the capital of Brasilia. Da Silva -- whose husband is universally known as Lula -- was first lady from 2003 to 2010.
Although Lula left power with sky high ratings and taking credit for Brazil's economic boom, his legacy has been badly tarnished by a subsequent recession and a string of corruption charges last year in which his wife was also indicted.
Both Lula and his wife denied any wrongdoing.
JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!
ADVERTISEMENT
Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:
Email: news@pulselive.co.ke
Next story