Bachelor alumna Hailey Merkt dead at 31: Model passes away after cancer battle - as family pay heartbreaking tribute praising her 'strength and grace'

The former Bachelor contestant Hailey Merkt has died at age 31 following a tragic struggle with cancer.

On Tuesday, Merkt's Instagram page was updated with what appeared to be its first post in over two months, revealing that she had died following months of treatments for Leukemia.

Merk had competed on season 21 of the Bachelor, when she competed for Nick Viall's affections. 

'It is with broken hearts we share that our beloved Hailey has passed away after a courageous fight for her life,' the statement began.

It said she had 'faced this journey with unimaginable strength, grace, and selflessness,' adding that 'Her determination, courage, and will to live surpassed every timeline the doctors gave her, and she chose to spend her final moments surrounded by loved ones and doing what she cherished most with no regrets.'

'She will forever be remembered as anything but boring, always hysterically funny, and as someone who lived fully in the present moment,' it continued, and the statement said that she 'embraced life with an unmatched zest' and that 'her beautiful spirit has touched countless lives.'

'Hailey will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her laughter, her love, and her vibrant spirit have left an undeniable mark on our hearts,' the statement continued. 'While we grieve her loss, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit will live on in all the lives she touched. Rest in peace, Hailey.'

It offered thanks to her fans and supporters who had donated to a GoFundMe account, which was left open for those who still wished to donate.