Former “Bachelor” contestant Hailey Merkt has passed away at the age of 31 following a brave battle with leukemia. Merkt, who gained recognition during season 21 of the popular dating show in 2017, died on July 26, 2024, due to complications from her illness.
In a heartfelt statement shared on her Instagram page, Merkt’s family expressed their deep sorrow. “It is with broken hearts we share that our beloved Hailey has passed away after a courageous fight for her life,” the statement read. “Hailey faced this journey with unimaginable strength, grace, and selflessness. Her determination, courage, and will to live surpassed every timeline the doctors gave her, and she chose to spend her final moments surrounded by loved ones and doing what she cherished most with no regrets.”
The tribute highlighted Merkt’s vibrant personality and zest for life. “She will forever be remembered as anything but boring, always hysterically funny, and as someone who lived fully in the present moment,” the statement continued. “Hailey embraced life with an unmatched zest; her beautiful spirit has touched countless lives.”
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Merkt had previously shared her leukemia journey with the public. In October, she posted a photo of herself receiving treatment, captioned with a rare smile. “A rare moment caught smiling during treatment :),” she wrote.
In April, Merkt had announced on her GoFundMe page that she was declared “leukemia free.” However, an update shared after her passing revealed a tragic turn of events. “After the bone marrow transplant had taken, she was told she had nine months to not even think about cancer, but in truth, she only had six weeks before she got the terrible news that leukemia cells were back and moving fast,” the update explained.
The update also praised Merkt’s resolve and clarity in her final days. “She had such clarity and independence and grace. She decided she wanted to live every last minute she had to the fullest: being with the people she loved and doing the things she loved,” it added.
Hailey Merkt’s death has left many mourning the loss of a bright and inspiring individual who faced her final days with unmatched courage and grace.
