Stephen Sutton, who raised more than £3 million pounds for the Teenage Cancer Trust, has died aged 19.
The final chapters of Stephen's inspirational story touched thousands of well-wishers, as well as a long list of celebrities who helped him achieve the astonishing fundraising sum.
Stephen, a talented student and drummer, was diagnosed with bowel cancer aged 15. Two years later, doctors told him his condition was incurable.
He devoted his remaining time to raising money and awareness for Teenage Cancer Trust and telling his story in a daily blog.
Stephen, a former pupil at Chase Terrace Technology College in Staffordshire, drew up a 'bucket list' of 46 tasks he wanted to complete before his life ended, one of which was to raise £10,000 for charity.
With the help of scores of generous well-wishers, Stephen smashed that target and decided to set a more ambitious goal - £1m.
Dozens of celebrities, including comedians Jason Manford, Jimmy Carr and John Bishop got behind Stephen's fundraising drive, tweeting pictures of themselves giving him the thumbs up and encouraging people to donate. The £1m target was achieved with days of it being set, and has since topped £3.2 million.
A petition calling for Stephen to be knighted was also signed by more than 35,000 people.
On Tuesday night, Stephen's family left a message on his Facebook page to say his condition had deteriorated.
And in a heartbreaking message this morning, his mum said: "My heart is bursting with pride but breaking with pain for my courageous, selfless, inspirational son who passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of this morning, Wednesday 14th May.
"The ongoing support and outpouring of love for Stephen will help greatly at this difficult time, in the same way as it helped Stephen throughout his journey. We all know he will never be forgotten, his spirit will live on, in all that he achieved and shared with so many."
The news came following a post by Stephen on April 22 where he gave a final "thumbs-up selfie" where he said: "It’s a final thumbs up from me! I’ve done well to blag things as well as I have up till now, but unfortunately I think this is just one hurdle too far."
But, remarkably, just two days later his condition - and mood - had improved and Stephen took to his blog to say he was "still here and still fighting".
Stephen's Story also caught the attention of Prime Minister, David Cameron, who visited the teenager in hospital and described him as "an inspiration".
He said: Anyone who watches that video on YouTube can't help but be impressed by his bravery and courage but also his incredible warmth and passion for life."




#Mirror.co.uk