Social Media Star Jessica Daugirdas Passes Away at 35 Following Cancer Battle
Popular influencer Jessica Daugirdas has tragically died at the age of 35 after a three-year battle with bowel cancer that she courageously documented for her legion of loyal followers. The Brazilian TikTok star, who amassed over 100,000 followers across social media platforms, passed away on Saturday, leaving behind a devastated family and online community.
A Journey Shared With Followers
Jessica first revealed her diagnosis at age 32 in March of last year, explaining in a video that she discovered the cancer through a colonoscopy after noticing concerning symptoms. "I discovered it through a colonoscopy," she shared, detailing how she experienced lifelong constipation and a feeling of incomplete bowel movements before noticing blood in her stools.
"At first it was occasional, then more frequent," Jessica explained about the bleeding. "I thought it might be haemorrhoids or something else. I never imagined it could be cancer." The colonoscopy revealed a substantial polyp measuring two to three centimetres in her rectum, positioned very close to the anus.
Treatment and Complications
Following her diagnosis, Jessica underwent an intensive treatment regimen including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and multiple surgeries. Initially, these interventions appeared successful, offering hope to both Jessica and her followers. She regularly updated fans about her journey, particularly focusing on navigating life with an ostomy - a surgical opening in the abdomen that allows waste to exit the body.
Her social media profiles reflected her determined spirit, with her TikTok bio reading "Facing cancer with lightness!" and her Instagram handle stating "Living out purpose amid pain. Living with an ostomy."
Tragically, the cancer later returned, and earlier last week, Jessica's sister Gabi revealed that Jessica had been hospitalised in a high dependency unit due to a serious case of sepsis. "She is still undergoing treatment, receiving excellent care from the medical team and being closely supported by the family," Gabi wrote at the time. "She is on many medications, which has left her very unwell."
Family Announcement and Tributes
Announcing Jessica's passing, her heartbroken family released a statement that read: "In His infinite wisdom, God has called to Himself our warrior, who fought bravely until the end with strength, faith and courage." The family described Jessica as a "warrior" who maintained her fighting spirit throughout her health struggles.
Fans and followers have flooded social media with tributes since news of her death emerged. One wrote: "Our baby girl has been laid to rest," while another shared: "Go with God warrior!! Woman of faith, perseverance and a lot of light!!! Your story of showing smiles through pain, marked your history!!!"
Legacy of Awareness and Inspiration
Jessica Daugirdas, originally from Taperoá in Brazil's Bahia state, leaves behind a husband and a significant digital legacy. Through her candid documentation of her cancer journey, she raised awareness about bowel cancer symptoms and the realities of living with an ostomy. Her approach of facing serious illness with "lightness" and purpose inspired thousands who followed her story.
Her death highlights the importance of early detection for bowel cancer, with Jessica's experience serving as a reminder to take symptoms seriously and seek medical attention promptly. The social media star's openness about her treatment, setbacks, and daily challenges provided valuable insight into the cancer experience for both patients and their loved ones.
