The Heartbreaking Loss of Nurse Hailey Okula
I’m still reeling, honestly. The news of Hailey Okula’s passing hit the social media world – and the nursing community – like a ton of bricks. Nurse Hailey, as her 425,000 Instagram followers knew her, died suddenly on March 29th, 2025, after suffering a cardiac arrest. It’s just… unbelievable.
Hailey was more than just an influencer; she was a force of nature. A dedicated ER nurse, a loving wife, and a new mom. Just a few weeks before, she and her husband, Matthew, welcomed their son, Crew, into the world via IVF. Their journey to parenthood wasn’t easy; they faced infertility head-on with incredible grace and openness, sharing their story with her huge online following.
A Devoted Wife and Mother
Matthew, a Los Angeles Fire Department engineer, shared the devastating news on Instagram. He described the agonizing speed with which things unfolded. Hailey suffered from a rare and often fatal condition called an amniotic fluid embolism shortly after giving birth. There wasn’t much they could do. Reading his words, you could feel the raw pain – the utter unfairness of it all. He described Hailey as “gorgeous, smart, hardworking, passionate, trustworthy, and above all else, unbelievably loyal.” Thirteen years of marriage, a love story that felt ripped away too soon. It’s heartbreaking.
A Legacy of Support for New Nurses
Beyond her personal life, Hailey was a champion for other nurses. Back in 2019, she founded RN New Grads, a program dedicated to supporting newly graduated nurses as they navigated the often-overwhelming transition into the profession. She knew firsthand the challenges they faced, and she wanted to make it a little easier. It’s just another example of her incredible empathy and dedication.
And then there’s her unwavering honesty about infertility. She shared her struggles openly on social media, offering comfort and hope to countless others on the same difficult path. She built a community of support, and now that community is grieving with Matthew and baby Crew.
A Wave of Grief and Support
The response to Hailey’s death has been overwhelming. The outpouring of love and support on social media is a testament to the impact she had on so many lives. Thousands of messages – heartbreaking, beautiful tributes from colleagues, friends, and followers. A GoFundMe campaign set up to support Matthew and Crew has already surpassed its goal. It's a testament to how many lives she touched.
Remembering Hailey’s Light
Hailey’s loss feels like a profound emptiness. She was a shining light – compassionate, strong, and fiercely loving. A gifted nurse, a devoted wife and mother, and an inspiration to us all. Her story is a tragic reminder of life's fragility, but also a powerful testament to the importance of cherishing every moment, every connection, and the unwavering power of human kindness.
