Influencer Sara Bennet has passed away at the age of 39, just three years after being diagnosed with ALS, leaving behind a heartfelt message for her followers.
The news of Sara Bennet’s death was shared on Tuesday (January 13), leaving her fans and social media community in mourning.
The mother of two succumbed to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) at the age of 39, after battling the disease for three years.
Throughout her illness, Bennet shared her experiences on social media, building a community of supporters and well-wishers.
The Cleveland Clinic hospital describes ALS as “a neurodegenerative condition that affects how nerve cells communicate with your muscles. It leads to muscle weakness that gets worse over time.”
“ALS eventually causes your muscles to waste away (atrophy). Atrophy can make it harder to breathe and may lead to life-threatening outcomes.”
On Tuesday, Bennet’s Instagram account shared her final farewell, a post she had prepared in anticipation of her passing.
In her post, she wrote: “I am not in pain, or tired. I can laugh, talk, and I can move.”
“Reflecting on my last few months of my life, I am glad I didn’t go suddenly even WITH the suffering. I finished my list.”
“Even if you don’t believe in anything, I am feeding the earth, and my tree. I loved this life, and am grateful for the time.”
The Cleveland Clinic estimates that around 5,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with ALS each year.
While no cure exists, the hospital notes that treatments are continually advancing, aiming to slow the disease’s progression and enhance quality of life.
Bennet’s Instagram is now filled with condolences and messages celebrating her life and influence.
The most recent post on her account provides guidance for those wishing to honor her memory, suggesting donations instead of flowers. These contributions will support her husband, Rusty, and their sons, 9-year-old Lincoln and 7-year-old William.
The post states: “In lieu of flowers, Sara has asked for people who’d like to contribute to donate to the 529 College Fund accounts for Lincoln and Will.”
“Additionally, if you would like to support Rusty, Lincoln, and Will in the immediate, we invite you to contribute to the Meal Train that’s been established.”
“Links for the 529 account contribution & the meal train are in the link in the bio above.”
“Thank you for all of your beautiful words and messages.”