Stacey Nightingale was a well-known Aboriginal tattooist from Montville on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Tragically, she died just a few hours after the birth of her third child on Wednesday, May 7th. Her unexpected death has left an “unimaginable void in the hearts of everyone who knew her,” as friends and family struggle to cope with the profound loss.
Nightingale, renowned for her artistry and lively, colorful spirit, had documented her pregnancy experience for her 13,000 Instagram followers. On her final post, dated April 19, she expressed her appreciation for the opportunity. She described her pregnancy as “the greatest blessing.” Unfortunately, this blessing quickly became a tragedy when she passed away shortly after giving birth to the twins.
Nightingale’s longtime friend Kellee Hollywood remembered Nightingale as a strong force for good in the lives of everyone around her. “Stacey brought light wherever she went. Her laughter, strength and profound wisdom opened hearts, deepened minds and empowered a generation,” continued Hollywood. The community’s grief is palpable as they reflect on Nightingale’s legacy as a “devoted mother … and a fiercely loving friend.”
In reaction to the tragedy, Hollywood launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to care for Nightingale’s fiancé Chris and their children. As of Friday night, the campaign had already raised more than $12,000. In that spirit, this very generous support will provide tremendous relief to the family in this difficult time. Hollywood emphasized the urgency and importance of this support, stating it is “dedicated to supporting Chris and her beautiful children in the wake of this profound loss.”
“Nightingale’s family released a statement confirming her passing: “It is with heartbreaking sadness I announce Stacey passed away on Wednesday the 7th of May.” They shared how she was a gentle, beautiful, one-of-a-kind beacon of light that had made an indelible impression on all those she encountered. “She fought hard to stay with us but eventually transitioned to death,” they added.
It’s evident from the family’s determination to keep Nightingale’s memory alive that they don’t want his legacy to stop there. “We will honor Stacey in every way we can and always keep her spirit close,” they stated. Those close to her insist that no words can express the magnitude of this loss. This is doubly true for her three kids and fiancé, who feel the loss deeply.
In her own reflections before her passing, Nightingale noted, “A blessing I didn’t know I needed. A blessing dressed up in challenge. A blessing I’m learning so much from.” These words will ring true for all who knew her, especially those she left with the light she shared abundantly in her lifetime.
From the community of Sunshine Coast, we grieve for this remarkable person. They come together to care for Nightingale’s family in this tragic, unexpected loss. A spokesperson from Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health was forced to respond to the damaging situation. They doubled down on the importance of patient confidentiality and decided they would not release further information about Nightingale’s care.
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