Tanner Martin, the beloved influencer who inspired thousands by openly sharing his journey with colon cancer, has died at age 30 — just six weeks after he and his wife, Shay Wright, welcomed their first child, a daughter. His passing was announced in a moving Instagram video that Martin recorded himself, ensuring his final message to his community reflected the warmth and candor that defined his life.

A Life Lived Out Loud

Martin’s story began gaining national attention five years ago, when, at just 25, he was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer. Rather than retreating from the public eye, Martin and Wright chose to document every step of their journey — from hospital rooms to moments of joy, fear, and hope — building a supportive online family that followed them through every high and low.

On Wednesday, June 25, Wright shared the heartbreaking news in a post that stunned followers. The video, recorded by Martin before his death, begins with a simple, direct message: “Hey, it’s me, Tanner. If you’re watching this, I am dead.”

Despite the gravity of the moment, Martin’s signature humor and optimism shone through. “I had a heck of a life,” he said, explaining that he wanted to announce his own passing to ensure his wife and daughter were supported, and to have the chance to share his thoughts one last time.

Facing the End With Courage and Humor

In the video, Martin reflected on his life with gratitude and hope, even as he acknowledged the fear and uncertainty of death. “But you guys, life was awesome. I really enjoyed it while I was here,” he said, beaming into the camera. “Hopefully, I believe there’s something after this. I’m excited to meet those people, and hopefully we’re hanging out now and making fun of all you nerds.”

Martin spoke of family members who had passed before him, expressing excitement at the thought of seeing them again, free from pain. “Death is scary, but it’s also like a new adventure, you know?” he mused. “I’m excited to see what the experience is like, and hopefully it’s good.”

He ended his message with a heartfelt thank you to his followers: “I love you guys, and seriously, thanks again for all your support and helping to make the last years of my life here on earth fun and enjoyable and helping me be comfortable.”

Shay’s caption for the video captured the bittersweet nature of the moment: “May the force be with you from our angel force ghost🤍 see the next video for his wish.”

A Final Wish for His Family

In a follow-up post, Wright shared Martin’s last wish: that their community rally together to support her and their newborn daughter’s future through a GoFundMe campaign. It was a testament to Martin’s enduring concern for his loved ones — and the strength of the community they had built.

Martin’s passing comes just 41 days after the couple celebrated the birth of their daughter, a moment they had long hoped for and chronicled with their followers. “She’s here,” they wrote on Instagram in May, sharing a tender photo of the three of them in the hospital, a family finally brought together after years of struggle.

An Unfiltered Journey Through Love and Loss

Since going public with his diagnosis in November 2020, Martin’s openness about his battle with cancer has resonated deeply with fans. He and Wright posted regular updates about treatment, setbacks, and small victories — all while navigating the emotional rollercoaster of IVF, pregnancy, and new parenthood.

In an Instagram video posted just days before his daughter’s arrival, Martin shared a candid health update. “The chemo makes me really hoarse, so I sound like a different me. But I’m doing okay, just tired,” he said, holding up tiny baby slippers and counting down the days until he would meet his little girl.

Martin’s journey was never sugarcoated. In a 2024 interview, he and Wright spoke with PEOPLE about the complex emotions surrounding their pregnancy — the excitement, but also the “grief, fear, and anxiety” that came with knowing their time together might be short.

A Legacy of Hope and Connection

Martin’s story is one of resilience, humor, and deep love. Even after being told in February 2023 that his cancer was no longer curable, he continued to find purpose in sharing his life, raising awareness about colon cancer, and advocating for others facing similar battles.

His willingness to be vulnerable — to laugh, cry, and hope in front of an audience of strangers — helped break down the stigma around terminal illness and inspired countless others to cherish each day.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from fans and fellow influencers alike, many recalling the ways Martin’s honesty and positivity had touched their lives. “Tanner showed us all how to live bravely, love fiercely, and laugh even in the darkest times,” one follower wrote. “His legacy will live on through Shay, their daughter, and the community he built.”

Looking Ahead

For Wright and their daughter, the road ahead will be challenging. But they will walk it surrounded by a community that Tanner helped create — one built on empathy, support, and shared hope. Through the GoFundMe campaign and the outpouring of love online, Martin’s wish to care for his family endures.

Martin’s story is a reminder of the power of connection, the courage it takes to face the unthinkable, and the beauty that can be found even in goodbye.