Dominique McShain, a 21-year-old influencer from New Zealand, has sadly passed away after a widely followed and deeply personal battle with colorectal cancer. Through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, McShain chronicled her experience with honesty and bravery, inspiring over 200,000 followers worldwide and bringing critical awareness to young adult cancer.
Diagnosed at just 20 years old, McShain faced an aggressive form of bowel cancer that later metastasized to her liver. She continued to share updates on her health even as her condition worsened, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into life with a terminal illness.
Colorectal cancer, often referred to as bowel cancer, is a form of cancer that arises in the colon or rectum. A surprising 30% of colon cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals younger than 55. [1]
In her final Instagram post dated April 6, Dominique announced that she had entered end-of-life care. Doctors informed her and her family that she had mere days to weeks left. Despite the heartbreaking reality, she spoke with hope about envisioning a pain-free afterlife.
Even amidst her battle, Dominique sought joy and normalcy. Before her illness, she had been studying psychology, a path she had to leave behind following her diagnosis. In December 2024, she fulfilled one of her dreams by marrying her partner in an intimate ceremony, followed by a honeymoon in Thailand — moments she described as precious victories in a life interrupted too soon.
In the wake of her passing, tributes from across the world continue to pour in. Followers have expressed how deeply her words touched them, inspiring many to live life more fully and to advocate for cancer awareness among young adults.
Reference:
1. Colon Cancer Coalition. “Colon Cancer Facts.” Colon Cancer Coalition. Accessed April 25, 2025. https://coloncancercoalition.org/colon-cancer-screening/facts/.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Aditi Rattewal/MSM)
