Austin Bradshaw is sharing the poignant story of his late wife, influencer Kaelin Bradshaw, who passed away on October 27, 2023, after a courageous nine-month battle with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare type of bile duct cancer. In an emotional interview with Today.com, Austin spoke about their journey, highlighting Kaelin’s determination and the impact she had on others through her social media presence.
Kaelin, aged 29 at the time of her death, first experienced unsettling abdominal pain that led the couple to the emergency room. Initially diagnosed with a torn oblique muscle, doctors later discovered a “giant” growth on her liver. Due to her young age, medical professionals were not initially concerned about the possibility of cancer. However, the situation took a serious turn four months later when she returned to the hospital, suffering from debilitating pain.
Austin recalled the moment they received the devastating diagnosis of Stage 4 cancer, stating, “It hit us like a brick wall because that’s not what you plan on hearing when you’re 28.” The couple faced the harsh realities of the illness together, with Austin describing their nine-month fight as filled with both struggles and small victories. “It’s a lot of fight for a little reward each time,” he said. “You fight really hard, and then it disappears. You’ve got to take these little wins.”
The impact of Kaelin’s illness extended beyond their personal lives. Austin noted that her name was gaining recognition in the oncology field, as doctors expressed frustration over the fact that someone so young was facing a disease typically associated with older adults. “The doctors were just so angry that she’s 28 years old, dealing with the cancer that only people in their 50s and 60s usually get,” he explained.
Kaelin’s decision to start a TikTok account became a channel through which she could connect with others facing similar challenges. “She felt she could help people with similar fights get through whatever struggles they were going through,” Austin reflected. With over 100,000 followers, her account grew significantly, providing inspiration and hope to many.
Throughout their ordeal, the couple held onto hope for a positive outcome. Austin emphasized their commitment to sharing their truth, regardless of the trials they faced. “We told ourselves that over and over again: We need to be strong and we need to be positive, even though we are just being dealt the worst parts,” he shared. He praised Kaelin for her strength, positivity, and beauty throughout the entire journey.
As Austin navigates life without his beloved wife, he is determined to honor her memory and the legacy she left behind. Kaelin’s story is one of resilience and hope, resonating with many who have faced similar battles. Her influence continues to live on, not just through her social media presence but also in the hearts of those she inspired.
