Rachel Yaffe, a 27-year-old TikTok star known for documenting her battle with a rare form of liver cancer, died on Oct. 11, as confirmed by her obituary. Yaffe was diagnosed with fibrolamellar carcinoma at age 20 and built a following of over 55,000 by sharing her health journey and offering a glimpse into the challenges of living with cancer.

In a 2023 TikTok video, Yaffe revealed that her initial symptoms were misdiagnosed as anxiety before a liver specialist discovered a 20-centimeter tumor blocking blood flow to her legs and causing shoulder pain. Over the years, she kept her audience updated on her treatments, including chemotherapy, proton therapy, and alternative methods. By January 2024, she had started chemotherapy again and, a few months later, shared that a tumor in her left lung was causing her severe discomfort and bleeding, which led to further procedures and radiation.

@rachelkyaffe Finding the little johs helps me stay motivated even on my worst days 🫶 #cancerhealing#healing#findingjoy#nycliving#exercise#healthyliving#cleaneating#chronicillness#antiinflammatory ♬ original sound – Rachel Yaffe

Yaffe’s health continued to decline, and in June 2024, she updated her followers on the immunotherapy treatments that were making her feel fatigued. She maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and rest. In July 2024, Yaffe posted about undergoing proton therapy and working with an integrated group of practitioners to figure out her treatment plan.

Her last TikTok post in September 2024 reflected on the toll radiation had taken on her body, leading to a significant loss of strength. Despite these challenges, she remained focused on her mental health and maintaining a strict dietary regimen aimed at cancer healing.

Her passing has left a profound impact on her followers, many of whom left heartfelt tributes in her online memory book. Friends and fans recalled her as a strong, inspirational figure who touched many lives through her openness in sharing her story.