The entertainment world and Guatemalan television are mourning the loss of Raquel Escalante. The model and presenter passed away at 28 after a difficult battle with cervical cancer.
Her story, marked by professional achievements and a medical fight, now serves as an inspiration. Escalante’s charisma and determination made her one of Guatemala’s most beloved public figures.
She shared messages of courage with her followers during her most challenging times. Many describe her authentic light as her most distinctive characteristic.
Escalante achieved significant success in beauty pageants. She was crowned Miss Intercontinental Guatemala in 2021. This title solidified her position as one of the country’s strongest representatives.
That same year, she traveled to Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. There, she competed against more than 70 delegates globally and secured a spot in the Top 20. Her international performance established her as a benchmark in Guatemalan modeling.
Her pageant career began early and met with success. She was the fourth finalist in Miss City Tourism World 2017. Escalante also reached the final of Miss Tourism World in China. This exposure boosted her confidence and opened doors to international agencies.
She cultivated a strong presence on social media. Escalante amassed over 87,000 followers on Instagram. She used the platform to share reflections, routines, and moments from her daily life.
Her authenticity resonated with thousands of followers. She spoke candidly about her illness and emotional processes.
Escalante also forged a path in television as a presenter. Her journey through beauty pageants led her to become a personality for TV Azteca Guate. She showcased her talent in front of the cameras.
The channel paid tribute to her after her death. They stated, “Her charisma, her joy, and that special light that always accompanied her made every moment by her side unique and unforgettable.”
Her fight against cervical cancer began in February 2024. According to a GoFundMe campaign organized by her family, Escalante was hospitalized for low hemoglobin levels. She later announced she had entered remission.
The period of tranquility was brief. The disease returned just months later.
Escalante herself announced the recurrence of her illness. In October 2024, she shared a brave message on Instagram. “Today I want to open my heart and share news that, although difficult, I face with the same courage that has always accompanied me… cancer has returned to my life,” she wrote.
Her words reflected her strength and the honest way she confronted her situation. Before her passing, she shared a poignant reflection. “I am not a model in a photo. I am a woman who has lived pain, who has faced fear and who, even so, chooses to continue shining,” she stated.
Her final words stand as a powerful legacy of resilience, strength, and humanity.