Bailey Cooper’s family received the worst news any parent could hear – their son had cancer. In 2016, the young boy was diagnosed with Stage 3 Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

His life quickly became centered around medical treatments and doctor visits.

Initially, there was hope for a positive outcome as the cancer went into remission. Unfortunately, it didn’t last long.

Bailey returned to school, and things seemed normal until the cancer returned. This meant more chemotherapy and hospital visits. Once again, the treatments initially seemed effective, and Bailey began to feel better.

However, in August, devastating news came: the cancer had returned, and this time the prognosis was grim.

Bailey’s father, Lee, shared that it was late Stage Four and very aggressive.

The cancer had spread rapidly, with doctors finding lumps in Bailey’s chest, lungs, liver, and stomach. They gave him only days or weeks to live.

Bailey was heartbroken upon hearing the news but remained determined to survive until his baby sister’s arrival in a few months. Everyone hoped and prayed he would hold on.

Amazingly, Bailey showed incredible strength. In November, he held his baby sister for the first time. His parents let him choose her name: Millie.

Bailey’s mother, Rachel, mentioned that he took on all the responsibilities of an older brother – he changed her, washed her, and sang to her.

Following Millie’s birth, Bailey’s health rapidly declined.

Bailey’s parents hoped they could celebrate Christmas together as a family. They urged Bailey to make a list of gifts he wanted, but he selflessly requested presents he knew his younger brother, Riley, would enjoy.

The extended family gathered just before Christmas to say their goodbyes. Bailey’s grandmother cried, expressing her wish to switch places with him, but Bailey scolded her.

He told her, “You should think about your grandchildren instead of being selfish.”

Bailey’s brain was affected by cancer, and he underwent five days of painful radiotherapy. During this time, he told his family it was his time to go.

Bailey expressed his desire to stay but acknowledged it was time to become his baby sister’s guardian angel.

Bailey’s family stayed by his side as he passed away on December 22. The cancer had overwhelmed his small body.

Rachel shared that they spent hours by his side, reading stories and playing his favorite songs.

At 11:45 a.m. on Christmas Eve, they gathered around his bed, knowing his time was near. They gently told him, “Bailey, it’s time to rest. Let go now.”

Bailey shed a tear before taking his last breath and passing away peacefully.

The family was devastated by their loss, but they found comfort knowing Bailey was at peace.

Lee expressed that although they were numb, they were also relieved that he was no longer suffering.

The parents now strive to honor their wise young son’s wishes.

Rachel mentioned that during their recent family gathering, Bailey instructed them to limit their crying to 20 minutes and to take care of Riley and Millie.

Bailey’s story is one of sadness and tragedy, but his bravery, resilience, and optimism in difficult times continue to inspire people worldwide. Although his family mourns his loss, they believe his spirit and impact will endure.