Nick Cannon wants to turn 'pain into purpose' with new foundation in honor of his late son Zen
The rapper, comedian, and host hopes to help other families affected by cancer.
Nick Cannon has formed a new pediatric cancer foundation in honor of his late son Zen, who died of brain cancer in December at just 5 months old.
In a new interview with Entertainment Tonight, Cannon said he hopes the organization will help other families with children suffering from cancer.
"I'm a true believer in turning your pain into purpose," "The Masked Singer" host said. "To know how much joy that he brought our family, I just wanted to spread that light."
"I feel like hopefully the foundation's work will be able to help other families going through similar situations," he added. "Even the research for pediatric cancer, so people don't have to go through this. I was like, 'This is a perfect opportunity. We can take what we’ve gone through and spread the light.'"
Cannon announced the Zen's Light Foundation with his son's mother, Alyssa Scott, on Friday, one day after what would have been Zen's first birthday. Their goal "is to foster global excellence in hope, grief-care, and pediatric healthcare for families and children in need," Cannon and Scott said in the announcement.
The 41-year-old rapper, comedian and host posted photos on Instagram of "a beautiful lighting ceremony to honor the life of an Angel" and commemorate the foundation's launch.
"Can't wait for next year where our Lighting Gala will continue [to] grow to help find a cure for pediatric cancer, further research and help console more families during difficult times," Cannon wrote.
Cannon has been keeping himself busy of late. He is currently hosting his MTV Wild ‘N Out Live tour, which wraps up Saturday in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The father of seven -- soon to be eight -- also recently celebrated his twins Zion Mixolydian and Zillion Heir's 1st birthday at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, with their mother, DJ Abby De La Rosa.
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