Former Bachelor Contestant Hailey Merkt Passes Away at 31 After Battle with Leukemia
Hailey Merkt, a former contestant on The Bachelor, has tragically passed away at the age of 31 following a long and courageous battle with leukemia.
Her passing was confirmed in a heartfelt social media post shared on her personal Instagram page. The post included a picture of Hailey and a touching message that read, “It is with broken hearts we share that our beloved Hailey has passed away after a courageous fight for her life.”
The tribute highlighted Hailey’s bravery and resilience throughout her illness, stating, “Hailey faced her journey with unimaginable bravery, kindness, and selflessness. Despite every medical setback, she remained determined and chose to spend her final days surrounded by family and friends, doing what she loved most, with no regrets.”
The post went on to describe Hailey as “highly entertaining, never dull, and fully present in each moment.” Her vibrant spirit and love for life touched many, and the caption added, “Hailey embraced life with an unmatched zest; her beautiful spirit has impacted countless lives.”
The post also expressed the deep loss felt by those close to her, saying, “Hailey will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her love, laughter, and energetic spirit will always be remembered. Though we mourn her loss, we find comfort in knowing her spirit lives on in everyone she inspired.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Hailey’s grieving family to help them through this difficult time. The campaign, which will remain open until August 10, has raised over 112,000 Canadian dollars.
Hailey made her television debut in 2017 during Season 21 of The Bachelor, where she competed for Nick Viall’s affection. She was eliminated in the second week of the competition, but left a lasting impression on her fellow contestants and viewers.
Several Bachelor alums shared their memories of Hailey in the comments section of her tribute post. Danielle Maltby, a fellow contestant from the same season, wrote, “I feel so lucky to know your laugh and thankful to have met the kindest, most delightful person in the strangest places. So much love to all your people.” Raven Gates added, “Oh my goodness! This makes me so sad. Rest easy, Hailey. You will always be remembered.”
Ashley Stern also shared her grief, saying, “I feel lucky to have known such a beautiful, solid soul. I’ll never forget you, Hailey,” while Dominique Alexis wrote, “I hope you’re in a peaceful place, my love. I can’t believe I won’t see you again, but I’ll cherish every memory.”
Hailey had been open about her battle with leukemia, sharing her journey with fans on social media. In April, she celebrated being “leukemia-free,” giving hope to many. However, just three months later, her health took a turn for the worse. According to the GoFundMe page, after her bone marrow transplant, Hailey was initially told she had nine months to focus on healing, but tragically, leukemia cells returned after only six weeks.
Throughout her fight, Hailey continued to document her experiences, posting updates about her treatment and moments of joy, like a photo of her smiling during treatment in October 2023, which she called a “rare moment.” Her social media had previously been filled with selfies, dog pictures, and glimpses into her modeling career and everyday life.
Despite her struggles, Hailey’s positivity and spirit remained strong, and her legacy of love and strength will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Rest in peace, Hailey.
Breaking: Robert Pattinson and Suki Waterhouse Welcome First Baby, Share a Tender Photo
Robert Pattinson, known for his role in Twilight, and Suki Waterhouse have been in a steady relationship for over five years. Now, the couple is celebrating the arrival of their first child and has shared the baby’s first photo.
A special pregnancy announcement.
At the Corona Capital Festival in Mexico, Suki Waterhouse shared a personal surprise with her audience. Dressed in a radiant pink dress and feathered coat, she teased the crowd saying, «I’m extra sparkly today because I thought it might distract you from something else that’s going on.» With a dramatic gesture, she opened her coat, revealing her pregnancy to the excited fans.
The couple was seen on a walk with a baby stroller.
Suki Waterhouse, at the age of 32, has embraced motherhood. She’s recognized for her contributions to acting and music. Alongside her, Robert Pattinson, who is 37, was seen casually walking in Los Angeles, pushing a pink stroller. The couple’s relationship became public around July 2018 and by the year’s end, they were prepared to progress in their relationship. An insider has verified, «They are engaged. They both want to be married. It’s important for them.»
Suki shared the baby’s first photo.
On April 4, the actress and singer shared a glimpse of her newborn with the world. While the couple has kept the baby’s name and gender private, a photo shows the new mother lovingly looking at the camera, cradling her infant wrapped in a blanket adorned with hearts.
The caption for this tender snapshot read, «Welcome to the world angel 
.»
Another famous celeb who recently became a proud mama again is Gal Gadot. Read the full story here.
Preview photo credit Jordan Strauss/Invision/East News, sukiwaterhouse / Instagram
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