A mother of seven has passed away three months following a cancer diagnosis, coming just a year after her children lost their father. Michelle Bailey, who was diagnosed with cancer in July after initially being thought to have had a stroke, was found to have five tumors in various parts of her body, including her brain and lungs. On October 18, the 53-year-old peacefully passed away at her residence in Margate, Kent, surrounded by her family, who described her as the pillar of their lives.
Tragically, Michelle’s death occurred a year after her husband, Craig, also succumbed to heart and kidney failure. Their grieving children, the youngest being 10 years old, are grappling with the reality that they now only have each other for support. Megan Watson, Michelle’s 22-year-old daughter, expressed the immense challenge of losing both parents at such a young age, particularly for her younger siblings Jimmy and Jenson, who have special educational needs.
Michelle’s health troubles began with chest pains, initially misdiagnosed as chest infections, until she was rushed to the hospital in July with suspected stroke symptoms. She was later transferred to Kent and Canterbury Hospital, where scans revealed the heartbreaking diagnosis of five tumors in her body. Megan’s partner, Layla Bond, highlighted the significant impact on the children, emphasizing that more time with their mother would have made a world of difference to them.
In her final weeks, Michelle received exceptional care from the Pilgrims Hospice, with her family remembering her as a vibrant and devoted mother who found joy in spending time with her loved ones, particularly during bingo nights. Megan fondly recalled her mother’s lively spirit, humor, and unwavering support for her family, describing her as an exemplary mother who always prioritized her children’s well-being.
The family has faced a series of heartbreaking losses, with Michelle losing her sister and father to cancer in 2022, followed by her mother’s passing in 2023. In April 2024, her husband also passed away after a prolonged illness, with Michelle tirelessly caring for him throughout his sickness. Megan reflected on the profound grief the family has endured, now navigating a world without any parents, relying solely on each other for strength and support.
A fundraiser has been initiated to cover Michelle’s funeral expenses and provide temporary financial aid for her children, Jordan, Megan, Mason, Marshall, Miles, Jimmy-Jay, and Jenson. Miss Bond, who set up the GoFundMe page, emphasized the importance of ensuring the family has the necessary support during this difficult period. Michelle is survived by her seven children and her close friend Rainy, who has been a pillar of support for the family during these trying times. East Kent Hospitals Trust has been reached out to for a comment.