Former Bachelor contestant Hailey Merkt fought valiantly against leukemia before passing away at the age of 31.
Her family shared the heartbreaking news of her untimely passing on her own Instagram, expressing their grief while paying tribute to her incredible fortitude, composure, and selflessness during her ordeal.
“After a courageous battle for her life, we regretfully announce the departure of our beloved Hailey,” the statement read. “Hailey handled this situation with unfathomable bravery, generosity, and selflessness. Despite each of the physicians’ predictions, her bravery, determination, and will to live were evident. She made the regretless decision to spend her last hours with her loved ones doing her favorite things.
Born in Vancouver, Canada, on November 3, 1992, Hailey appeared on Season 21 of The Bachelor in 2017, competing for Nick Viall’s love.
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In addition to being on reality TV, Hailey worked as a senior manager of marketing and communications and pursued photography. She received a diploma in print journalism from Conestoga College and majored in Communication and Media Studies at Carleton University.
She was pronounced cancer-free in April 2024, but three months later, her health abruptly declined, and she passed away too soon on July 26, 2024.Instagram
Hailey continued to share her story on social media in her final months, chronicling her struggles as well as her victories. Her passing prompted a flood of comments from her former Bachelor co-stars, who recalled her as a vibrant, witty, and loving person.
The young woman was honored by her family, friends, and former reality show contestants.
“I am grateful to have met and loved the most authentic, kind, and beautiful soul in the most unlikely of settings, and I count myself lucky to have heard your laughter. I will always be appreciative of your friendship there and in the real world. Rest peacefully, my friend. What a powerhouse. Much love to all of your loved ones,” said one of the former contestants on The Bachelor.
“Oh my god! I am deeply upset by this news. I sincerely hoped she would get better. Rest in peace, Hailey; you will never be forgotten,” said Raven Gates, a competitor.
Hailey received heartfelt condolences from Dominique Alexis, who appeared on the same season of The Bachelor as Hailey. “I hope you’re in the most serene and lovely place right now, my love. I will treasure every memory we had together, even if I can’t imagine never seeing you again. “I love you,” she said.
Hailey’s family thanked everyone who visited the GoFundMe page set up to help with the medical expenses and offered their support.
Peacefully rest, Hailey.