Brielle “Brie” Bird passed away after a five-year battle with a recurring form of neuroblastoma. The 9-year-old, along with her family, shared her life and medical journey on social media under the username @briestrongerthancancer.
Brie died on Thursday, Dec. 11, as her family announced on Instagram.
“You are the miracle. Your mission on this earth has been completed, and it was the greatest honor to guide you home,” her family wrote on Friday, Dec. 11. “You brought people closer to Christ, you showed the world that God is good, and your light reached every corner of the earth. We will love you for eternity.”
The family also said they would never stop sharing Brie’s story, adding, “Please come visit us often. Your bedroom door will always be open, and we will leave the playroom light on.”
“You did it, Brielle. You handled everything with grace,” the statement continued. “I can only imagine the beautiful reunion you are experiencing. I may be jealous, but I know you ran straight into Jesus’ arms. Thank you for inspiring so many.”
Brie was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma in 2020. At that time, her mother, Kendra, informed their 654,000 Instagram followers that doctors had discovered an 8-centimeter tumor in Brie’s abdomen, along with cancer that had spread elsewhere in her back.
Roughly two years later, the family celebrated that Brie was officially cancer-free. However, the neuroblastoma returned in January 2024. “I hope you never have to tell your child that their cancer has come back,” Kendra wrote when sharing the heartbreaking update.
In early July 2025, Brie entered hospice care, as Kendra shared with friends and followers online. To explain the seriousness of Brie’s condition, Kendra wrote a long, emotional post recalling a moment when Brie asked not to go back to the hospital for treatment because of the pain she was experiencing.
Kendra recalled her daughter asking, “Is it okay if I say no this time? I just want to stay home. I don’t feel good when I’m there, but I’m also scared not to go.”
Her mother agreed and reassured Brie that she did not need to make the trip to see her doctors and nurses.
“I called the hospital and told them we wouldn’t be coming this week,” Kendra wrote. “We want to honor her choice, allow her to speak for herself, and knowing there are no guarantees anyway, I cannot force her to suffer.”
Despite the heartbreaking reality of Brie’s end-of-life care, her family worked hard to make her remaining days meaningful and special. On Aug. 7, Brie received a surprise package from one of her favorite celebrities, Ariana Grande, who sent her several gifts.
Brie shared a video unboxing the package, which included items inspired by Wicked and Glinda, the character Grande portrays in the film. The singer sent Squishmallows, nail polish, perfume, and other thoughtful presents.
“Thank you so, so, so much, Ariana Grande,” Brie said in the video. “I love everything you sent me, especially the Squishmallows and all the other gifts.”
The video ended with a surprise message from Grande herself, who explained that Brie’s mother had told her about Brie’s love for Wicked. Grande agreed and said her personal favorite part of the package was the Squishmallows, calling them “very comfy and very cute.”
“I’ve watched your videos, and I think you are the most incredible, inspiring little light in this universe,” Grande said. “Thank you for being exactly who you are. I’m sending you so much love and many, many virtual hugs. I hope this brings you a smile, and I’ll talk to you soon. I love you.”
