A rising social media star, who had captured the hearts of millions with her openness about her battle with cancer, has tragically passed away at the tender age of 14.
Zuza Beine, a courageous young girl, was first diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia at just three years old. From that early age, her life became a constant battle against a disease that few could imagine enduring. Yet, instead of retreating into fear or despair, Zuza used her growing presence on social media as a platform to educate others about the realities of living with cancer. Her videos, honest reflections, and candid updates allowed followers to witness her journey firsthand, bringing awareness to the struggles, pain, and moments of hope that come with a serious illness.
Over the years, Zuza’s heartfelt content resonated with viewers worldwide, earning her a dedicated following of over two million fans. These followers connected with her authenticity, courage, and infectious spirit, which shone even in the face of immense challenges. Her online presence was not just about documenting sickness—it was a testament to her resilience, positivity, and the remarkable maturity of a young person who had faced more hardship than many endure in a lifetime.
According to her Instagram bio, Zuza had survived cancer five times—a testament to her unyielding strength and determination. Tragically, despite her ongoing fight, her family confirmed on September 23 that she had passed away, sending waves of grief through her vast online community.
“It is with broken hearts that we share that Zuza died yesterday morning,” her family wrote. “She lived 11 of her 14 years with a relentless cancer, yet lived more fully and gratefully than most. Her being changed us forever, and her dying will too.”
Her family highlighted how the last video Zuza shared poignantly captured her gratitude for the simple things in life, offering a glimpse into the deep appreciation she held for everyday moments. “It is no coincidence to us that the last video she made captures what she was grateful for—a testament to a life filled with both beauty and suffering. More than anything, she wanted to be a normal, healthy kid. But what made her life so beautiful was how she learned to face the hardest circumstances, like her disease, and still live fully.”
Just days before her passing, Zuza courageously revealed in a social media post that she was in “so much pain” that she could “barely walk.” Despite her suffering, she continued to focus on the blessings in her life, enumerating all that she remained grateful for. She reflected, “Being diagnosed with cancer has made me deeply grateful for the everyday things that many people often take for granted.”
Zuza’s videos often juxtaposed the harsh reality of her illness with the ordinary joys of adolescence. One day, she might be documenting a trip to a hospital’s cancer ward, offering an honest portrayal of treatment and pain. On another, she would delight in sharing her excitement over a new Taylor Swift album or showing off her latest makeup finds, reminding the world that she was, above all, a young girl with passions and dreams.
Adding to the family’s sorrow, Zuza’s uncle passed away just a week before her own death. In light of these losses, her family asked that those wishing to make donations consider supporting her uncle’s wife and children.
Zuza Beine’s life, though tragically brief, left an indelible impact on countless people. Through her courage, resilience, and unwavering positivity, she taught the world that even in the face of relentless hardship, one can live with gratitude, joy, and profound humanity. Her memory will continue to inspire and remind us of the extraordinary strength that can exist in even the youngest among us.