Zach Sobiech Dies, Viral 'Clouds' Star Dead at 18 after Inspirational Fight with Bone Cancer, Touching Statement from Children’s Cancer Research Fund [VIDEO]

By Danica Bellini, Mstars Reporter | May 20, 2013 04:59 PM EDT

Get the Most Popular Mstars News

Zach Sobiech, the beloved teen cancer patient behind the touching viral music video "Clouds," died on Monday morning (May 20) after battling a tough fight with bone cancer. He was just 18-years-old. The Children’s Cancer Research Fund released an emotional statement announcing Sobiech's passing on Monday.

Sobiech, who was diagnosed with the rare bone cancer osteosarcoma when he was only 14, posted this inspiring YouTube video last December. The song, which describes living life in the shadows of imminent death, soon went viral on the web, sparking an outpouring of support and love from fans and celebs. At the time, Sobiech was only given 17 months left to live:

The clip has already garnered close to 3 million views and counting.

A statement released by the Children's Cancer Research Fund reads:

"With heavy hearts, we are saddened to share that Zach Sobiech passed away this morning. Zach was at home and at peace with those he loved most. Zach's life ended just as he lived, embraced by the love of his family, friends, grace and music.

Cancer may have taken Zach too soon, but he leaves a lasting legacy that most of us will never achieve. His message of love and hope delivered through infectious lyrics and memorable tunes have imprinted on the minds and hearts of millions around the world. Zach became a beacon of light and benevolence in a world that sometimes weighs too heavily. In turn, he received a flood of well-wishes that helped him, and his loved ones, smile through tremendous pain and worry.

His legacy will also help the children of tomorrow who learn that they have osteosarcoma, the type of cancer that took Zach's life. He became the face of this rare disease and built tremendous awareness of the need for more research funding. Because of Zach, his family's support, and the donations of thousands in his name, kids with osteosarcoma will have better outcomes in the future. This was a source of comfort to Zach in his last days, and will provide comfort to his family going forward.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Sobiech family - parents Rob and Laura, siblings Alli (Collin), Sam and Grace, along with Zach's many friends, aunts and uncles, cousins, teachers, classmates and others who share in this tremendous loss.

We also want to acknowledge Zach's friends and A Firm Handshake band mates, Sammy Brown and Reed Redmond, who dedicated their time and energy to helping Zach achieve his music dreams. Our thoughts are also with Zach's constant companion, and love of his life, girlfriend Amy Adamle.

With Zach's blessing, the Sobiech family requests that all memorials be directed to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Fund in lieu of flowers to help carry on Zach's mission to help kids with cancer."

Here is a celebrity music video entitled "My Last Days," inspired by Sobiech's "Clouds." It features Jason Mraz, Rachel Bilson, Sarah Silverman, Ashley Tisdale, and Bryan Cranston among a slew of other celebs. It was just released earlier this month:

Thoughts and condolences go out to Sobiech's family, friends, and fans during this heartbreaking time.

© 2024 Mstars News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Get the Most Popular Mstars News

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Follow Us Everywhere

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Music Times Network is always looking for well-versed, enthusiastic contributors and interns.
Submit your application today!

DON'T MISS

LATEST STORIES

MUSIC VIDEOS

Real Time Analytics