Kanye West thanks fans for 'kind words'
Kanye West has thanked all those who have offered "kind words" to him since the death of his mother Donda last weekend.
The singer's mother reportedly died as a result of complications following a plastic surgery procedure.
A statement, issued on behalf of the West family, said: "Kanye West, his family and friends would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and kind words that have come in from across the country since the death of his mother, Dr Donda West."
"After working in higher education for 31 years, Dr Donda West and Kanye West co-founded the Kanye West Foundation with the mission of helping to combat the severe dropout problem in high schools across the country."
The statement said: "The first and signature initiative of the Kanye West Foundation is Loop Dreams. Designed to capitalize on students existing interest in hip-hop, Loop Dreams challenges students to learn more about what's behind hip-hop culture in order to help them develop skills, express themselves creatively and be empowered."
"In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Dr West's name to the Kanye West Foundation/Loop Dreams Teacher Training Institute."
Kanye West often spoke of his close relationship with his mother, dedicating the song 'Hey Mama' to her.
The lyrics of the song proclaim: "I'm so proud of you... I appreciate what you allowed for me. I just want you to be proud of me."
