Kit Roberts
An influencer who built a following sharing her battle with cancer has died at the age of just nine.
Brie Bird was diagnosed with stage four neuroblastoma back in 2020, and went on to document her journey with the condition over the following years.
Her family confirmed that she had died in a post to Instagram on December 11, paying tribute to Brie.
Brie built up a big following on social media, sharing her struggle with cancer with her 654,000 followers online.
Around two years after her initial diagnosis, her family announced that Brie was now cancer free.
But in January 2024, the family had the heartbreaking news that her cancer had returned, with her mom Kendra captioning the post: "I hope you never have to tell your child that the cancer is back."
Now, her family have shared a tribute to Brie following her passing.
In a post on December 11, they wrote: "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 added that they would 'never stop' sharing her story, saying: "Please come visit us often. Your bedroom door is always open, and we’ll leave the playroom light on."
The statement continued: "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."
Back in 2020, doctors located an 8-centimeter-long tumor in Brie's abdomen, as well as cancer which had spread to her back.
Her social media presence saw Brie getting some attention from none other than Ariana Grande, who got in touch after hearing about how much Brie loved Wicked, which Grande stars in.
Grande sent her squishmellows, which went down well with Brie who said: "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 told her: "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."