Influencer Tanner Martin’s Poignant Pre‑Recorded Farewell

Tanner Martin, a 30-year-old Utah influencer, courageously documented his five-year battle with stage 4 colon cancer, starting from his diagnosis at age 25.

In early 2024, he and his wife, Shay Wright, welcomed their first child, daughter AmyLou, conceived via IVF amidst the uncertainty of his terminal prognosis. Their story resonated globally, marked by strength, hope, and transparency.

A Farewell Message Shared with Love

On June 25, Shay shared Tanner’s final pre-recorded video message to their 450,000 followers. He opened with:

“Hey, it’s me, Tanner. If you’re watching this, I am dead.”
He reflected on his fulfilling life, placed his faith in the afterlife, and expressed gratitude:
“Life was awesome… I really enjoyed it while I was here”.
His heartfelt words were meant to alleviate Shay’s burden, giving her space to mourn while ensuring his voice remains.

A Legacy Secured Through Community Support for the Influencer

Influencer Tanner’s final wish was practical and moving: set up a GoFundMe to support Shay and AmyLou, and within hours it surpassed $276,000 (some sources state nearly $400,000), reflecting the depth of his digital community’s love. He humorously urged supporters: “For less than the price of a McChicken… you could fund my AmyLou’s legacy fund”.

Balancing Joy and Grief

The overlap of new life and impending loss defined Tanner and Shay’s final months. They prepared a “living funeral”, painted nurseries, and navigated emotional extremes—welcoming their daughter just 41 days before Tanner’s death. His final social posts, including glimpses of baby slippers, reflected love, longing, and a future he wouldn’t live to see.

Martial Meaning for the Digital Age

Tanner’s story highlights how modern storytelling—via Instagram and TikTok—can shape narratives, build empathy, and inspire action. His openness about death equipped Shay with emotional and financial resources, while his community responded with compassion and practical aid.

Even beyond his passing, Tanner’s influence persists. The GoFundMe remains active, pledging long-term security for AmyLou. Shay continues sharing updates, ensuring Tanner’s legacy endures through parenting milestones, community reflections, and advocacy.

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