Negrita Jayde Cancer: What We Know & Her Legacy

Hollie Heller 20 May 2025

What defines a life? Is it the accolades, the relationships, or the battles fought? For Negrita Maria Jayde (Truszyk), it was a tapestry woven with threads of athleticism, love, and an unwavering spirit, tragically cut short by the relentless advance of cancer.

The name Negrita Jayde might not be immediately recognizable to everyone. However, within the world of competitive bodybuilding, she was a force, a figure of admiration and respect. Beyond the sculpted physique and the demanding discipline of her sport, she was a woman known for her warmth and kindness. She transcended the physical, leaving an impression on those who knew her. Her journey, marked by triumphs, personal connections, and ultimately, a courageous fight against a formidable foe, offers a poignant reflection on a life lived fully, even in the face of adversity.

Category	Details
Full Name	Negrita Maria Jayde (Truszyk)
Born	July 5, 1958, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Died	August 28, 2009, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Age 51)
Nationality	Canadian
Known For	IFBB Pro Bodybuilder, Author, Fiancee of Gregory Hines
Career Highlights	1986 Canadian National Championships - 1st Place Competed in the 1988 IFBB North American Heavyweight Championships - 2nd Place Competed in the 1990 IFBB Olympia
Notable Relationships	Gregory Hines (Longtime Partner & Fiance)
Author	"Supervixen: Secrets for Building a Lean and Sexy Body" (1995)
Reference	Google Search Results

The news of her passing, announced on August 28th, 2009, brought sorrow to many. The Toronto Star, among other publications, carried the obituary, detailing the end of a life marked by remarkable achievements and profound personal connections. She was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, and a friend. She was also a celebrated athlete, a woman who had conquered the demanding world of competitive bodybuilding. Her achievements in the sport included a first-place finish at the Canadian National Championships, which paved the way for her professional career. Her presence in the competitive arena extended to the 1990 IFBB Olympia, a testament to her dedication and skill.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the stage, Negrita was a dedicated professional, participating at the 1988 international federation of body building [ifbb] north american heavyweight championships. She placed 2nd. She left an indelible mark on the bodybuilding community, and as a testament to her recognition in the field, she even placed second in the IFBB North American Heavyweight Championships in 1988, standing out amongst the competition. As an athlete, Negrita brought something unique to the sport and gave the audience a personality.

Negritas life intertwined with that of the renowned actor and tap dancer, Gregory Hines. She was his longtime partner and fiance, sharing the last five years of his life. Their relationship was a bond of love and mutual support, which was evident in their shared joy. Hines himself was a significant figure in the world of entertainment. His Tony Award for "Jelly's Last Jam," and his memorable appearances on television underscored his multifaceted talent. The fact that he passed away from liver cancer in 2003 highlights the cruel reality of a disease that has touched so many lives.

Even in her final days, her strength shone through. Despite receiving a devastating cancer diagnosis the previous August, she insisted on driving herself home from the hospital, demonstrating a resilience that those close to her had come to expect. Her friend and business partner, Gunnar Sikk, recounted this incident, a glimpse into her spirit, which was both formidable and inspiring.

Her legacy extends beyond her professional achievements and personal relationships. It lies in the values she embodied: perseverance, dedication, and a genuine warmth toward others. Those who knew her remember not only her athletic prowess but also her kindness. Negrita was an author as well, crafting a book on fitness: Secrets for building a lean and sexy body. She left a mark, a testament to the fact that she was a celebrity in her own right.

In the wake of her passing, Negritas loved ones, including her parents, Michael and Carmela Truszyk, her siblings, Ola and Tina, and her nieces and nephews mourned their loss. Her friend Gunnar Sikk, and so many more, will remember her spirit.

The final years of her life involved her organizing memorials for her late fianc, Gregory Hines. These events were not solemn occasions, but joyous celebrations of his life and legacy. This reflects the strength and positivity she exuded. It shows how she embraced the memory of her loved ones. She showed the world how to overcome loss through love and cherishing memories.

The specifics of "Negrita Jayde cancer" highlight how aggressive cancer can be. It is essential for patients and caregivers to understand its unique features. The disease's rapid progression often leads to advanced stages before diagnosis, creating further complications. Like many other aggressive cancers, the challenges are significant. However, Negrita's life demonstrates how strength can overcome challenges. The information is a reminder to others to seek to understand and face them with courage.

The finality of her passing reminds us of the fleeting nature of life. It urges reflection on the importance of living fully, cherishing relationships, and pursuing passions. It is a story of strength, resilience, and the enduring impact of a life well-lived.