Brielle “Brie” Bird, a beloved young social media influencer who courageously shared her five-year journey with Stage 4 neuroblastoma, has died at the age of 9.
Her family announced her passing on December 11, 2025, writing that she “was the miracle” and that her “purpose on earth was fulfilled.
Brie became widely known online through her Instagram account @briestrongerthancancer, where she and her family documented her life with cancer, inspiring and moving hundreds of thousands of followers around the world with her strength, joy, and faith.
At the time of her death, her account had amassed over 650,000 followers who followed her daily updates and messages of hope.
A Battle Waged With Courage
Brie was first diagnosed with Stage 4 neuroblastoma in 2020, when she was just a young child.
Doctors discovered a large tumor in her abdomen that had spread to other parts of her body.
Her mom, Kendra Bird, shared that moment with their followers, beginning what would become a long and emotional online journey.
After two years of treatment, Brie's cancer went into remission — an incredible milestone that the family and their community celebrated together online.
But in January 2024, the cancer returned and proved increasingly aggressive. Despite ongoing therapies and efforts, her condition worsened.
In early July 2025, Brie's family announced she had entered hospice care, and they honored her wish to spend her remaining days at home, surrounded by loved ones rather than in the hospital.
Touching Tributes and Unforgettable Moments
Throughout her journey, Brie’s story touched hearts far beyond her immediate circle.
In August 2025, pop star Ariana Grande — one of Brie’s favorite entertainers — sent her a heartfelt package filled with themed gifts, including Squishmallows and items inspired by Wicked, leading to a deeply emotional unboxing shared on Brie's social media.
Fans, celebrities, and fellow content creators expressed their support during her illness, with many sharing messages of love and solidarity as Brie's battle continued.
Her family often described her as a bright light who brought joy to others even amid profound hardship.
Family’s Message and Legacy
In their announcement, Brie’s family shared that they will continue to honor her legacy by keeping her story alive.
They wrote that her life “showed the world that God is good,” and said they will “never stop” sharing what she meant to them and to so many others.
They invited her fans to visit her memory often, saying her bedroom door will “always be open.”
Brie’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes across social media, with many followers expressing deep sadness and gratitude for the courage she showed throughout her illness.
A Life That Inspired Many
Though her years were far too few, Brie’s impact was profound. By openly sharing her experience — from hospital treatments and minor victories to moments of joy amid pain — she helped humanize the reality of childhood cancer for a vast global audience.
Her journey served as a powerful reminder of resilience, love, and the strength found in community support.
Her story joins a line of young patients whose social media presence brought cancer awareness into the public eye, marking a new era where personal narratives help educate and connect people worldwide.
