Carol Maraj, the mother of Nicki Minaj, is teaming up with an NYC plastic surgeon to offer domestic violence victims free reconstructive surgery for injuries they sustain during spousal attacks.
Maraj, who is the founder of the domestic abuse foundation Carol Maraj Foundation, spoke at Friday’s NAACP luncheon. During the Long Island event, she explained the motivation behind the free service. According to the 63-year-old, the service will cover costs for women who survive their domestic attackers but are left with broken bones, scars, and even disfigurement. She shared that the partnership with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Scott Blyer will help “restore physical confidence” after enduring such experiences. Blyer also spoke at the event, reiterating Maraj’s point. He added that all surgical fees would be free of charge for anyone who’s been physically changed due to household violence. This may include a broken nose or lacerations.
Though she may be in a better space now and able to give back, Maraj has been vocal about her past relationship with her ex-husband and Minaj’s father, Robert Maraj. During one instance, she said Robert dragged her from the car and punched her in the face. She would ultimately remain with him for ten more years after this incident, facing constant brutality that only ended when she was able to escape during his rehab stint. Nicki Minaj has also addressed the violence her mother faced, which she witnessed as a child. In a 2018 teaser for her Making of Queen documentary, she explained that watching her mother suffer is the reason she is “abrasive” with people. Robert was killed in February 2021 after being struck by a car during a hit-and-run.
Women seeking the pro-bono surgical services are encouraged to contact the Carol Maraj Foundation.
