In a heartbreaking situation, popular influencer Hailey Okula passed away at just 33 years old due to an amniotic fluid embolism after giving birth to her son, Crew, via C-section. The tragedy unfolded on March 29, mere hours after a momentous occasion that should have brought joy. Her husband, Matthew, remained at her side during the ordeal, witnessing the resuscitation efforts that ultimately could not save her.
Matthew Okula has since opened up about his unbearable loss, choosing to share his wife’s story in hopes of raising awareness about the risks surrounding childbirth. His words reflect the depths of his grief and determination to honor Hailey’s memory. In recollections after her passing, he remembered the excitement of welcoming their long-awaited child into the world. He said, “It was a pretty special moment… we did it. We’re finally going to be able to start the family we’ve always been talking about.”
Months later, he continued to process his loss while striving to keep Hailey’s spirit alive in their son. “It’s my way of making sure I remember the little details of things she used to say to me,” he explained. “If I don’t say them to Crew, then maybe I’ll forget them… I don’t want to forget them.” His sentiment underscores the intensity of parental love and the longing to share cherished moments with a child who will never get to experience them with his mother.
Matthew’s vulnerability resonated with many, as he navigated the painful reality of life without Hailey. In an emotional Instagram post dated August 27, he conveyed raw feelings about their loss. “We’re coming up on 5 months without Hailey,” he wrote. “I promised I’d be transparent and share the good and the bad, so here it is. Some nights I’m crying in the dark, wishing she could be here to hold him, to see him, to live the life she worked so hard for. It’s all so bittersweet. We miss and love you, Hailey.”
The tragic circumstances surrounding Hailey’s death sparked widespread sympathy across social media. Many users reacted with shock and sorrow, emphasizing the pain Matthew must endure. One user stated, “This beautiful influencer, nurse Hailey Okula, gained a large following by showing her struggles to get pregnant during two years. Unfortunately, she passed away last week due to birth complications. I can’t imagine the pain her husband must be feeling right now. RIP.” Another remarked, “So heartbreaking… I can’t imagine the weight her husband is carrying. But that’s also why motherhood is so powerful because women willingly put their lives on the line to bring life into the world.”
Amniotic fluid embolism, though rare, is a severe complication during childbirth. Medical experts like Dr. Kisha Davis contextualized the fear surrounding childbirth and the disparities that exist. “Childbirth ‘is not a fear that we should have,’” she said, addressing the worries many have regarding maternal health. She pointed out that the ongoing health challenges faced by mothers today should not mirror those of women a century ago. Dr. Davis expressed concern particularly for Black women, arguing that “the older we are when we become pregnant, the greater the risk of complications.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Jeffrey Ecker analyzed complications that can arise from repeated cesarean sections. He noted that a vaginal delivery, when possible, typically carries fewer risks and leads to a faster recovery. The risks increase significantly with subsequent C-sections, which can lead to complications tied to scarring.
Dr. Davis wrapped up the discussion with a hopeful perspective. “We want babies to have a healthy start,” she said. “Babies have the healthiest start when their mother is also healthy and can be there to take care of them.” In the wake of this tragedy, these insights highlight the critical nature of addressing maternal health and advocating for safer childbirth practices.
The outpouring of grief and support surrounding Hailey’s death serves as a reminder of the profound impacts unexpected losses can have on families. Matthew’s determination to remember his wife and create a lasting legacy for their son underscores the strength and resilience of love in the face of unimaginable heartache.
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