TikTok Star Dies at 50 After Choosing Medical Aid in Dying
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- TikTok influencer Rebecca Luna, who openly documented her battle with early-onset Alzheimer's, died at age 50 after choosing medical assistance in dying (MAID).
- Luna shared her journey on TikTok, raising awareness for the rare form of dementia and advocating for end-of-life autonomy.
- Her decision to pursue MAID was a personal choice made after her condition deteriorated, and she had been raising funds for her end-of-life expenses.
Rebecca Luna, a Canadian TikTok influencer who candidly shared her struggle with early-onset Alzheimer's disease, has died at the age of 50. Her death was not unexpected but a deliberate choice, as she opted for medical assistance in dying (MAID) surrounded by loved ones.
It feels so strange and vulnerable to put myself out there like this.
Luna's diagnosis came in April 2025 at age 49, a rare and devastating form of dementia. She decided to share her experience on TikTok, noting the scarcity of resources for younger individuals facing the disease. As a single mother from Victoria, British Columbia, she felt isolated but found a supportive online community through her honesty.
Over the past year, her TikTok profile became a platform for Alzheimer's awareness and advocacy for the right to a dignified death. Luna openly discussed doctor visits, disease progression, and her decision to seek MAID. She actively engaged with followers, answering questions and providing resources for those in similar situations.
I am proudly a single mom my whole life, so my amazing followers suggested I start a campaign for my funeral costs so I donโt leave that responsibility on my loved ones, on top of all their grief.
In June, Luna launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover her end-of-life expenses, explaining that her health was declining faster than anticipated. Just days before her death, on July 22, she posted her final video, informing followers that she had moved her MAID date from early August to July 25. She explained that while previous date changes were beyond her control, this final decision was hers alone, driven by the discomfort of her physical condition.
It is a difficult decision, I have to tell you, because I am living in a body that does not feel comfortable, safe, good, anything. The feeling is awful. And so I am looking forward to the idea of waiting two weeks.
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.