Daveigh Chase's Father Pays Heartbreaking Tribute on Her Would-Be 36th Birthday

Daveigh Chase's father, John Schwallier, shared a heartbreaking tribute on what would have been the actress's 36th birthday. As previously reported, the 'Lilo & Stitch' and 'The Ring' star passed away in June from AIDS. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, with chronic polysubstance use listed as a contributing factor. Her death was ruled natural.

Daveigh's passing devastated friends and family, who had searched for her for a long time, including in Los Angeles' Skid Row, after she went missing. This day is especially hard for those who loved her, as she would have celebrated her 36th birthday on Friday. To mark the occasion, her father John Schwallier paid tribute to her in an interview with Dailymail.com.

"Every day I am thinking about her constantly. The sad part is the only pictures I have of Daveigh is what I've printed on the internet, since her mother kept me away from her. She was taken from this life way too early. I just want to wish her a happy birthday today and tell her that she is on my mind every day," he said.

We send love to Daveigh's loved ones as they continue to grieve. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Consider checking out resources from SAMHSA at https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline or visit StartYourRecovery.org.