It is with profound sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Cassandra “Cas” Costley, who left this world at 1:10 a.m. at the age of 39 after a courageous and deeply personal battle with stage four colon cancer. Her loss leaves an immeasurable ache in the hearts of her family, friends, and the millions who were touched by her story.
Casandra was not only a beloved daughter, niece, sister, wife, and friend — she was a light, a steady presence, and a soul whose depth drew people in effortlessly. To those who knew her best, she was woven into the fabric of everyday life. Her love was quiet but powerful, her strength honest, her spirit unwavering.
She lived with remarkable grace, choosing truth over comfort and vulnerability over silence. Casandra bravely shared her cancer journey publicly, including with the Today Show and through her social media, where more than two million people followed her story. Her purpose was clear: she wanted people to truly understand what stage four colon cancer looks like — not sanitized, not softened, but real. In doing so, she became a voice for awareness, education, and courage.
Casandra taught others that strength does not have to be loud. It can be steady. It can be gentle. It can exist alongside grief, fear, hope, and joy — all at once. She taught the importance of protecting one’s peace, of being intentional with time, and of living fully even when life narrows.
Above all, she cherished love and presence. Simple rituals — sharing pizza, sitting quietly, traveling, laughing — became sacred moments. She traveled not to escape, but to feel alive. Even in her final days, she spoke with peace, faith, and certainty about what awaited her next.
Casandra leaves behind a legacy measured not in years, but in lives touched, hearts softened, awareness raised, and love given freely. She did not lose her battle — she lived it with courage, dignity, and extraordinary grace.