Belén Domínguez, a courageous 31-year-old from Seville, passed away on April 26, 2025, at the Ramón y Cajal Hospital in Madrid. Her journey with medullary cancer, which began two years ago, captured the hearts of nearly 200,000 followers on Instagram who admired her strength and positivity throughout her battle. Diagnosed with a grade 4 intramedullary tumor in July 2023, Belén had been hospitalized since December of that year, fighting a disease that ultimately claimed her life.
Despite the grim prognosis, Belén's spirit remained unbroken. She shared her experiences openly on social media, documenting her treatments, hospital visits, and the support she received from friends and family, including notable figures like singer Alejandro Sanz. Her posts resonated deeply with many, as she approached her illness with a remarkable blend of humor and hope.
Belén's faith played a significant role in her life, providing her with comfort during her darkest moments. She received a heartfelt letter from Pope Francis in January 2025, expressing his closeness and encouragement. "Do not give in to discouragement," he wrote, a message that Belén shared with her followers just days before her passing.
In October 2024, she published a book titled La vida es bonita incluso ahora ("Life is Beautiful Even Now"), where she recounted her life story and the lessons learned through her struggles. The book reflects her unwavering belief that life can be beautiful, even in the face of adversity. In an interview with Diario de Sevilla earlier this year, she shared her philosophy, stating, "I teach how I relativize problems, how we see life from this perspective and continue to be happy."
Belén's medical journey was fraught with challenges. After experiencing persistent neck pain that she initially dismissed as a simple muscle strain, she sought medical attention. The diagnosis of a grade 4 tumor came as a devastating blow. "The doctors saved my life, but the tumor was very serious and the surgery was difficult," she wrote in her book, detailing the urgency of her situation.
For the next 16 months, her hospital room—Room 717—became a sanctuary for her and her supporters. Decorated with flowers, rosaries, and religious icons sent from around the world, it was a place of healing and hope. Belén's faith deepened during her illness; she prayed daily and attended mass whenever her health allowed.
Belén's family, especially her parents Charo and Francisco, were her steadfast support, moving to Madrid to be by her side. Her fiancé, Emilio, remained by her side throughout her ordeal, often expressing his gratitude for her love and strength. "Thank you for teaching me what it means to trust, forgive, love, and smile despite all adversity," he said in a touching tribute.
As news of her passing spread, an outpouring of condolences flooded social media, with many recalling the inspiration she provided. Belén's journey was not just about her illness but a testament to resilience and the human spirit. Her story touched many lives, including celebrities who reached out to her during her treatment.
Belén's legacy will continue through her book and the countless lives she inspired. Her philosophy that "life is beautiful, even when it falls apart" resonates deeply with those facing their own battles. As her capellan, Francisco, remarked, "Belén was a wonderful person, but what I would highlight most is the faith she always transmitted and her dedication to others."
In a poignant reflection on her life, Belén wrote, "Every day that passes is one day less to get out of here. I have cancer, but I also have my family, Emilio, my friends, faith, strength, and hope. I still have some life ahead of me, right?" This spirit of hope and love will be her enduring legacy.
