Who was Rachel Yaffe? What Happened to Rachel Yaffe? How did Rachel Yaffe Die?

Who was Rachel Yaffe?

Rachel Yaffe was a TikTok star from Maryland who touched many lives by sharing her journey with a rare form of liver cancer called fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma. Diagnosed at age 20, she used her social media platforms to document her cancer treatment, openly talking about the challenges she faced both physically and mentally.

Rachel’s final post in September showed her gratitude for life’s small joys, despite the difficulties she was enduring. She had recently returned to her New York City apartment and found comfort in being around friends and focusing on her mental health.

Rachel's honesty and positive outlook, even in tough times, inspired her followers worldwide. Sadly, she passed away on October 11, 2024, leaving many of her fans heartbroken. In her final days, she continued to focus on finding joy in small things, which resonated deeply with those who followed her journey.

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Rachel Yaffe Health Battle Journey

Rachel Yaffe's health battle began when she noticed her abdomen was bloated, which she thought was due to gluten intolerance. However, she was diagnosed with a rare liver cancer called fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma, and by the time it was discovered, the cancer had already reached stage four. Doctors found a large 20cm tumor in her liver, and she underwent surgery to remove it. Unfortunately, just three months later, the cancer returned, spreading to her lungs and liver.

Throughout her journey, Rachel explored both traditional cancer treatments and alternative methods. She had been a long-time plant-based vegan, but due to her health needs, she switched to a high-protein, keto carnivore diet, which was very new to her. In February 2024, Rachel suffered a lung hemorrhage caused by pressure from a tumor near her heart, making it hard for her to breathe. She received urgent care and was put on a ventilator for three days. Afterward, she underwent immunotherapy and radiation to shrink the tumors.

By June, her scan results showed mixed news. Most of the tumors were stable, but one in her abdomen remained concerning, leading her to undergo proton therapy. After this, she moved in with her parents in Baltimore before returning to New York in August. In her final weeks, Rachel's health worsened, and she shared with her followers about her low appetite while focusing on maintaining her mental health despite the physical challenges.

Rachel Yaffe Age

Rachel Yaffe was 27 years old when she passed away on October 11, 2024. She had been battling a rare form of liver cancer since she was diagnosed at age 20.

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Rachel Yaffe Family

Rachel Yaffe, from Lutherville, Maryland, had a loving family. She was the daughter of Linda and Wayne Yaffe and had a brother, Jordan, and a sister, Jessica. She also had a close bond with her grandmother, Sydney Bass, and her dog, Layla. Rachel's grandparents, Harry Bass, Sonia Yaffe, and Stanley Yaffe, had passed away before her. After spending some time in Los Angeles, Rachel moved to New York in September 2023 to be closer to her sister, Jessica.

What is Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma?

Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma (FLC) is a rare type of liver cancer that mostly affects young adults who typically have normal liver function and no known risk factors. Under a microscope, it looks different from the more common liver cancer, with layers of fibrous tissue between the tumor cells.

Though it was initially thought that only about 200 new cases were diagnosed each year, recent research suggests it may actually be more common. Unlike other liver cancers, FLC doesn’t usually occur in people with liver damage or other typical liver disease causes.

What Happened to Rachel Yaffe?

Rachel Yaffe passed away on October 11, 2024, after a long battle with a rare liver cancer called fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma. She shared her cancer journey openly with her followers, inspiring many with her strength and positivity. Sadly, despite undergoing multiple treatments, her health deteriorated in the final months of her life.

How did Rachel Yaffe Die?

Rachel Yaffe died on October 11, 2024, after battling fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma, a rare form of liver cancer. Despite undergoing surgeries, radiation, and other treatments, her health worsened in her final months. The cancer eventually took her life.