Why did BET executive Zola Mashariki get the axe while on leave fighting breast cancer? Mashariki was diagnosed with breast cancer and went took medical leave in February. While on leave BET announced longtime President, Stephen Hill and head of original programming Mashariki would no longer be working with BET.

This announced came as shock to Mashariki as she was on medical leave. Mashariki took action immediately and emailed her to confirm there was a mix up and she was mistakenly included in the farewell to Hill:

Mashariki’s email:

Hi team,

As many of you know, I was diagnosed with breast cancer in December and have been out of the office and on medical leave since my first surgery on February 6. I just had another surgery last week and it is a painful recovery for me. It has also been hard on my children.

Thank you all for your kind words and support while I have been out. I miss you too!

I heard yesterday that Stephen was leaving BET. I’m concerned that there was a reference to me, as Stephen’s departure is a separate issue from my status at the company.

Here are the facts: I am on medical leave. My job is protected by the Family Medical Leave Act and related statutes (FMLA) and I have a contract in place. Viacom/BET are aware that I am scheduled to return on April 11 and that my medical leave may need to be extended depending on the progress of my recovery.

Bob Bakish has said our company values should be honesty, empathy and bravery. I agree with this wholeheartedly and our team has embodied this over the 2 years we have worked together. Without question, including me in Stephen’s departure announcement in not in keeping with those values.

I am continuing to focus on improving my health. I have faith in the Viacom/BET leadership and know they will fix this. I have a long history in Hollywood and am grateful for the outpouring of support I have received across the entire industry during this difficult time.

Our Original Programming team has accomplished a lot in a short time and the filmmakers and community are excited to work with us again. There is so much more to do.

All my best, Zola

To which a BET representative confirmed Mashariki no longer works for the company. And there was no foul play in her termination, everything was by the book. Something is telling that if Mashariki doesn’t talk to someone at BET soon, this could get ugly.