Who was Zuza Beine? Teenage influencer’s brave cancer battle that inspired millions
Who was Zuza Beine? Inside teenage influencer’s long cancer battle
The online community is mourning the loss of 14-year-old Zuza Beine, a young influencer who bravely shared her decade-long fight with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Her family confirmed she passed away on September 22, 2025.
In a heartfelt statement posted to Instagram the following day, Zuza’s loved ones described her as a radiant soul who managed to live more fully than many do in a lifetime. “She spent 11 of her 14 years battling an unrelenting cancer, but she lived with immense gratitude and joy,” they wrote. “Her life changed us forever, and her passing will too.”
“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,” the post continued. “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.”
A Voice of Strength and Vulnerability
Diagnosed with AML at just 3 years old, Zuza chose to make her journey public, using Instagram to document both her struggles and small victories. Through candid posts and videos, she built a following inspired not by perfection but by her honesty.
Only days before her passing, she uploaded a slideshow celebrating the simple things she cherished: meals she enjoyed, hairstyles she tried, and moments with loved ones. “It’s the everyday things that matter most,” she said in the video, a reflection of how deeply illness had shaped her perspective.
Living Through Pain, Sharing Hope
Zuza’s updates often revealed the harsh realities of living with cancer. In a mid-September post, she spoke openly about being in constant pain and relying on medication. Despite these struggles, she always reassured her followers that she would continue to share her truth, even when it wasn’t “pretty or cute.”
Earlier health updates highlighted both setbacks and progress. On September 14, she shared that her bone marrow biopsy showed significant improvement, even though she faced severe side effects, including seizures and hospitalizations. Through it all, she leaned on the prayers and encouragement of her supporters.
More Than an Influencer
Beyond documenting her health, Zuza used her platform to raise awareness about childhood cancer. In a 2023 interview with TMJ4 in Milwaukee, she explained her motivation: “I wanted to help other kids going through the same thing as me.”
Her content wasn’t limited to hospital rooms and treatments. Like many teens, Zuza enjoyed making lighthearted videos, sharing her love for Taylor Swift, and inviting fans to “get ready with me” as she did her skincare or makeup routines. She found joy in music, humor, and connecting with her peers online, even while facing the hardest circumstances imaginable.
A Legacy of Courage
In her final days, Zuza reflected once more on gratitude. In her September 20 post, she listed what meant most to her: delicious food, the ability to experiment with hairstyles, her pets, and the people she loved.
Her story is a reminder of resilience, authenticity, and the power of community. Zuza may be gone, but her openness has left an indelible mark on those who followed her journey.
FAQ Section
Who was Zuza Beine?
Zuza Beine was a 14-year-old influencer from Milwaukee who gained attention for documenting her courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). She used Instagram to share both her struggles and joys, inspiring thousands of followers.
What type of cancer did Zuza Beine have?
Zuza was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a rare and aggressive blood cancer, when she was just three years old.
When did Zuza Beine die?
Zuza passed away on September 22, 2025, after living with cancer for 11 years. Her family confirmed the news in a heartfelt Instagram post the following day.
What made Zuza Beine’s story so impactful?
Zuza’s openness about her pain, treatment, and small victories resonated with many. She often reminded her followers to cherish life’s simple moments, while also raising awareness about childhood cancer.
Did Zuza Beine share updates before her death?
Yes. Days before her passing, Zuza posted a video expressing gratitude for everyday things like food, hairstyles, her pets, and relationships. She also spoke candidly about her constant pain.
What legacy does Zuza Beine leave behind?
Zuza’s legacy is one of resilience and honesty. By documenting her journey, she inspired countless people to appreciate life, spread kindness, and support families affected by childhood cancer.
