Mother of Seven Dies from Cancer, Family Faces Heartbreak

A mother of seven, Michelle Bailey, has passed away after a brief battle with cancer, leaving her children grappling with immense loss. Michelle, aged 53, died on October 18, 2023, at her home in Margate, Kent, just three months after receiving her diagnosis. This tragedy follows the death of her husband, Craig Bailey, who died a year earlier, intensifying the heartbreak for their family.

Michelle’s health issues began with chest pain, initially misdiagnosed as a chest infection. In July, after being rushed to QEQM Hospital with what was suspected to be a stroke, doctors discovered five tumours in her body, including lesions in her brain and lungs. The diagnosis came as a shock, and her family has described the subsequent months as a harrowing experience.

Daughter Megan Watson, 22, expressed the profound impact of their mother’s passing on the family dynamic. “It’s no age at all to lose both their parents,” she said, noting that the youngest children, Jimmy and Jenson, age 12 and 10, have additional special educational needs that complicate their grief process. “We are doing our best to navigate life without her, which has been extremely difficult,” Megan added.

The family’s suffering is compounded by a series of losses. In 2022, Michelle lost her father, sister, and mother to cancer. Craig succumbed to heart and kidney failure in April 2024, with Michelle caring for him throughout his illness. The repeated tragedies have left the family feeling isolated, as they now face life without any parents. “We’re in a world without any parents at all,” Megan remarked, emphasizing the bond that remains among the siblings.

Michelle was known for her vibrant personality and dedication to her family. She was described as a “force of nature” who brought joy to those around her, especially during family outings, such as bingo nights. Her partner, Layla Bond, acknowledged the emotional toll on the children, stating, “It’s been so hard on the kids. They’re still grieving their dad.”

In her final weeks, Michelle received care from Pilgrims Hospice, which her family praised as “amazing.” They are now focused on honoring her memory and supporting each other during this challenging time. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to cover funeral expenses and provide financial assistance to the children. Layla Bond, who started the fundraiser, explained its purpose: “It’s to help raise money towards her funeral costs and to give her the send-off she deserves, but also for temporary financial support for the family during this incredibly hard time.”

Michelle Bailey is survived by her seven children, who now rely on one another for support. The loss of their mother has left them searching for ways to cope while holding onto the cherished memories of a woman who dedicated her life to her family. The East Kent Hospitals Trust has been contacted for comments regarding Michelle’s medical care.

As the family navigates this complex journey of grief and loss, they continue to seek solace in each other, determined to honor the legacy of a mother who was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.