Samuel Monroe Jr., best known for his role in the 1993 cult classic film Menace II Society, remains hospitalized on life support in Los Angeles with his condition rapidly worsening. His family is approaching a painful crossroads.
Monroe's wife, Shawna Stewart, revealed to TMZ that a recent CT scan shows the actor is suffering from encephalopathy, with his brain tissue deteriorating as a result of his severe illnesses. The actor is being kept in a negative pressure room due to his weakened immune system and is currently on a regimen of six antibiotics.
Stewart, who holds power of attorney, is grappling with the heartbreaking reality of evaluating her husband's quality of life. “He’s a fighter, and I’m praying for his recovery,” she said, adding that no definitive decision has been reached yet.
Monroe has been fighting for his life for weeks. He has undergone multiple blood transfusions in a matter of days as his body battles MRSA pneumonia, meningitis, and other ailments. He has also been placed on dialysis. While Stewart notes that Monroe has opened his eyes a few times recently, she believes it is likely a reflex response to pain from being moved.
The growing medical bills have prompted the family to launch a GoFundMe campaign, asking fans for support during this difficult time.