A young influencer who gained a significant online following by sharing her fight with cancer has sadly passed away at just nine years old.
Brie Bird received a diagnosis of stage four neuroblastoma in 2020 and chronicled her journey with the illness over the subsequent years on social media platforms.
Her passing was confirmed by her family on an Instagram post dated December 11, where they paid a heartfelt tribute to Brie.
Brie amassed a large audience on social media, engaging her 654,000 followers with her candid stories about battling cancer.
Despite being declared cancer-free approximately two years post-diagnosis, her family faced devastating news in January 2024 when the cancer returned. Her mother, Kendra, poignantly shared, “I hope you never have to tell your child that the cancer is back.”
Following her death, her family expressed their love and memories of Brie through a touching tribute.
In their December 11 post, they shared: “You are the miracle! Your purpose on earth was fulfilled, and it was the most sacred privilege to escort you home.
“You brought people to Christ, you showed the world that God is good, and your light shined to all corners of the earth. We love you for eternity!”
The family also mentioned their intention to continue sharing her story, adding: “Please come visit us often. Your bedroom door is always open, and we’ll leave the playroom light on.”
The tribute continued with: “You did it Brielle, you did everything with grace! I can only imagine the incredible reunion, and I’m so jealous; but I know you ran straight to Jesus.
“Thank you for being an inspiration to so many.”
In 2020, doctors discovered an 8-centimeter-long tumor in Brie’s abdomen, alongside cancer that had spread to her back.
Brie’s journey also caught the attention of singer Ariana Grande after learning about Brie’s love for Wicked, a production in which Grande appears.
Grande sent Brie squishmellows, which delighted her. Brie expressed her gratitude by saying: “Thank you so, so, so, so much, Ariana Grande. I love everything in the package that you got, especially the Squishmallows and everything else.”
The Wicked star responded to Brie: “I’ve seen your videos and I think you are the most amazing, most inspiring little light beam in this universe. You’re just so incredible, so thank you for being you.
“I’m sending you so much love and many, many, many virtual hugs. I hope this makes you smile, and I’ll speak to you soon. Love you.”