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Waukesha Teen Influencer Zuza Beine Dies at 14 After Courageous Cancer Battle
Waukesha, WI – Zuza Beine, a 14-year-old social media influencer from Waukesha who inspired millions with her valiant fight against cancer, passed away on September 22. Her family shared the heartbreaking news via Beine’s Instagram page, stating, “It is with broken hearts that we share that Zuza died yesterday morning.”
The family’s poignant message continued, “She lived 11 of her 14 years with a relentless cancer, yet lived more fully and gratefully than most. Her being changed us forever, and her dying will too.”
Beine was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia at the age of three. This aggressive cancer, which originates in the bone marrow, can rapidly spread throughout the body to areas such as the lymph nodes, central nervous system, spleen, and liver. Throughout her illness, Beine endured multiple relapses, underwent three grueling bone marrow transplants, and pursued clinical trials in her brave search for a cure.
Despite her challenging health journey, Beine cultivated a significant online presence, documenting her life and inspiring millions. Her TikTok account amassed nearly 3 million followers, with an additional 2.1 million following her on Instagram.
Following the announcement of her passing, an outpouring of condolences came from her vast network of followers, including numerous celebrities. Actress Melissa Gilbert, known for Little House on the Prairie, was among those who expressed their sorrow and admiration.
“I’m so so sorry to hear this,” Gilbert commented. “Zuza was and will always be such an inspiration to me personally.
She was honest, forthright and real. She was brave and kind and open.
The world will be a dimmer place without her.” Gilbert concluded her message by sending love and adding, “No more pain Zuza, for you now there is only beauty and peace.”
Other notable figures who had followed Beine’s journey and offered their sympathies include When Calls the Heart co-star Jack Wagner, Kelly and Sharon Osbourne, singer Lance Bass, and “Stick Season” singer Noah Kahan. Beine was a devoted fan of Kahan, often sharing videos featuring his music, including a raw social media post shortly before her death where “Growing Sideways” played in the background.
Kahan himself commented on the family’s post, writing, “We will never forget her. I’m heartbroken.
It’ll forever be my favorite memory singing along with her backstage.” His heartfelt message resonated deeply, garnering over 50,000 likes.
A GoFundMe page, initially established to support Beine’s medical expenses, will now direct funds to assist her extended family. The family noted that Zuza’s uncle unexpectedly passed away shortly before her, leaving behind a wife and children, and the funds will now aid them.
Reflecting on Zuza’s remarkable life, her family shared, “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.”