After years of challenges and hopes, a well-known nurse and online creator passed away just as her dream of becoming a mother came true.
Hailey Marie Okula, a 33-year-old nurse and social media personality, sadly died from childbirth complications soon after delivering her first child. The incident happened on April 1, leaving her husband, Los Angeles firefighter Matt Okula, to care for their newborn son, Crew
Hailey had shared her emotional journey of fertility struggles with her large online following. She had recently celebrated her long-awaited pregnancy, bringing hope to many of her followers. But the joy of welcoming her child quickly turned to sorrow
After giving birth, Hailey looked at their newborn and made a light comment about how big he was. Then, she suddenly told her husband, “I don’t feel good.” Those were her final words.
Soon after, doctors rushed in. Matt shared that he faced a difficult choice — whether to go to the ICU to be with Hailey or stay with their newborn son. Moments later, doctors informed him that they were performing CPR.
Hailey passed away due to cardiac arrest caused by amniotic fluid embolism, a rare but serious childbirth complication. It happens when amniotic fluid or fetal material enters the mother’s bloodstream, causing a sudden collapse.
Hailey and Matt had been together for nearly 13 years and had turned to IVF after struggling with infertility for two years. Crew was the child they had long wished for. Hailey had also built a community called RN New Grads, helping new nurses in their careers.
Matt remembered Hailey as strong and loyal, sharing how she always supported him during hard times. He said that although Hailey only held Crew briefly, her love for him had always been there.
A fundraiser has been set up to support Matt and Crew. The community has already raised over $300,000 to help with daily expenses, memorial costs, and future needs.
Our thoughts are with Matt and his family during this time.
