Only days before she lost her battle with colon cancer, 26-year-old Bailey Hutchins shared her final TikTok video from her hospital bed, radiating the same positivity that had defined her journey. For two years, Bailey inspired millions by sharing her fight with cancer, turning pain into purpose, and showing the world the power of hope. When she passed away on February 7, her online community mourned deeply, with many saying they were “crying for a stranger” they had never met—but had come to love.
The emotional journey began on January 31, 2023, when Caden Hutchins, Bailey’s boyfriend at the time, posted a heartbreaking update on Instagram. Bailey, then 24, had been rushed to the emergency room after her health rapidly declined. Emergency surgery revealed that part of her colon was cancerous. “Bailey is now diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer,” Caden wrote. “Our next step is kicking cancer’s ass. I know with persistence, positivity, and determination, Bailey will push through this. She’s young, strong, and ready to look cancer in the face and end it.”
Bailey, a registered nurse, took that diagnosis and turned it into a mission. Rather than withdrawing, she chose to document her experience on TikTok and other platforms, educating others about early detection and offering encouragement to anyone facing hardship. Her videos were a mix of raw honesty and unwavering strength. She spoke openly about symptoms, treatments, and the emotional rollercoaster of fighting cancer, always wrapping her updates in gratitude and joy. Her resilience shone in every post—whether she was dancing in her hospital gown, cracking jokes during chemo, or simply reminding her followers to appreciate life’s little moments.
Over time, her diagnosis escalated from Stage 3 to Stage 4, as the cancer spread to her abdominal cavity—a development known as peritoneal metastasis. The prognosis was grim, but Bailey’s spirit remained unbroken. She continued sharing her story with bravery, never letting her followers see her as a victim. Her last video, posted on January 19, 2025, was filmed from her hospital bed. Despite visible exhaustion, Bailey smiled at the camera. “Don’t mind my hair, I look crazy right now,” she said, playfully. “But yeah, I’m not going to share any updates on what’s actually going on with me, I just can’t, I just cannot. But I’m here. And I’m alive.” Her words comforted countless fans, offering a glimpse of her enduring spirit even in her final days.
Following that video, Caden took over her account, providing updates and thanking followers for their unwavering support. On January 26, he revealed they were taking things “day by day,” and that Bailey was deeply grateful for the love and prayers pouring in from around the world. Caden and Bailey had married in November 2023, sealing their bond in a heartfelt ceremony that was both a celebration of love and a testament to their strength.
@healingwithbailey Last night our Bailey B passed on to Heaven. Although we selfishly wanted her here forever we are at peace knowing that she no longer has to endure any pain or suffering. This past month+ has been an absolute devastating nightmare for Bailey as well as our families. Bailey fought so hard these past 2 years. It’s been an incredible journey to watch and I am so honored to be your husband and caregiver. Her spirit is as radiant as the sun. Bailey is such a light, and we plan on continuing to let it shine on. Myself, and our families will share her platform to tell stories about great memories and knowledge passed on to us from B. She was and always will be such a spark to so many, her story will live on. -Caden #coloncancerawareness ♬ original sound – Bailey Hutchins
On February 8, 2025, Caden shared the heartbreaking news that Bailey had passed away the night before. “Last night our Bailey B passed on to Heaven,” he wrote. “Although we selfishly wanted her here forever, we are at peace knowing that she no longer has to endure any pain or suffering. Bailey fought so hard these past two years.” His post, set to Wiz Khalifa’s emotional song “See You Again,” featured touching clips from their wedding, showing Bailey’s radiant smile and the love they shared. “Her spirit is as radiant as the sun,” he continued. “Bailey is such a light, and we plan on continuing to let it shine on. She was and always will be a spark to so many. Her story will live on.”
Tributes flooded social media as fans, friends, and strangers honored Bailey’s legacy. “I don’t have the words to express how sorry I am for your loss,” one fan wrote. “Bailey’s light radiated in every video. I didn’t know her, but I grieve her loss. She will be dearly missed.” Another user added, “The way my heart just sunk…I’m so, so incredibly sorry. I’m just a stranger on the internet but was so drawn to her beautiful spirit. Sending you love during this time.” One more wrote simply, “Crying for a stranger I just met a moment ago.”
Bailey’s impact extended beyond inspiration. She changed lives. One TikTok user shared, “I’ve been struggling with mental health this past year, lying in bed most days watching life pass by. Bailey, I promise not to take life for granted anymore. Thank you for sharing your story.” Another posted, “Bailey kept my faith alive while I’ve been helping my husband in his colon cancer journey. We aren’t giving up.” A 47-year-old survivor added, “I’m a colon cancer survivor. I started following Bailey a year ago. Her strength helped more people than she ever knew. Angel on Earth she was.”
Valentine’s Day 2025 marked Caden’s first without Bailey since they began dating in 2013. He shared a carousel of photos on Instagram capturing their love story through the years. Each image was captioned with a simple, powerful statement: “I loved you in 2013,” leading to “I loved you in 2025.”
Bailey Hutchins wasn’t just a TikTok creator. She was a symbol of hope, resilience, and grace. She showed the world that even when faced with the hardest of battles, it’s possible to live with courage, purpose, and love. Her legacy will continue to shine in the lives she touched and the awareness she raised. Rest in peace, Bailey. Your light will never fade.
We’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections—please share in the comments and help keep Bailey’s story alive by sharing this with others who may need her inspiration today.
