Harrison Gilks, who rose to TikTok stardom with his viral “bucket list,” died of a rare cancer last week at just 18 years old.
He passed “with his mom, dad and brother holding his hands and by his side,” the obituary reads.
“Harrison was an inspiration to many,” it continues. “He always found good in every situation and touched the lives of many with his messages of hope and encouragement through his TikTok videos, where he chronicled and shared his journey with cancer with the world.”
The Canadian content creator was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare, usually pediatric cancer that impacts soft tissue, in November 2020, according to CDC News.
At the time, doctors found a tumor near his prostate and spots on his lungs, CDC News reported, resulting in months of grueling treatment with chemotherapy and radiation.
In February 2022, he showed signs of remission and decided to go on a family vacation in celebration — but it was premature. Just months later, the cancer was back, and his condition was deemed terminal.
Harrison, who racked up over 300,000 followers on TikTok, announced his devastating diagnosis on the app in June last year and launched his “bucket list” — hell-bent on traveling and experiencing all he could before his time was up.
“He was determined not to let cancer get in his way,” his obituary reads. “But after nearly two and a half years of a hard-fought battle, knowing he did as much as he could, knowing he was loved and strong, he said goodbye.”
The New Brunswick native got the opportunity to see his favorite sports teams, hockey being his favorite, as well as picturesque places he’d only dreamed of seeing, such as the Rocky Mountains and the Canadian destinations Banff and Jasper.
On TikTok he shared his unthinkable journey, including clips standing on the field at football games, sitting on the bench at hockey matches and meeting his heroes.
His father, Trevor, reflected on Harrison’s many “firsts and lasts” to CBC News.
“Every time there was something that would put a big grin on his face and you could tell in that moment he forgot about cancer,” Trevor told the outlet. “You see those moments and it’s all worth it.”
Harrison’s diagnosis post got more than 7 million views, as users encouraged the young creator to make the most of his time. With the help of the local community, he was able to make his last wishes come true.
“It’s like a whole community looked after making this possible,” Trevor said, calling it “remarkable.” “That’s what chokes me up the most, having strangers wanting to be a part of it.”
Even after Harrison’s death, his online community participated in “Sticks Out for Harrison,” posting photos and videos of hockey sticks in memory of him.
Harrison’s last video was posted March 21 from his hospital bed, when he revealed he was suffering from complications of the cancer, which had spread, following a final family vacation to Mexico.
At the time, he announced he didn’t have much time left, as the tumors caused one of his lungs to fill with fluid, making it difficult to breathe. In the clip, he said he wished there was something his doctors — or even his devout followers — could do to save him, but that his outlook was grim.
“I love you guys. Thank you for all the support throughout everything,” he said in the video that reached 5.4 million viewers. While his bucket list wasn’t exactly complete, it was as good as it could get.
“Bucket list series done,” he said, ending the video. In the comments, his fans outpoured love, support and prayers for the young TikToker.
Ten days later, his death was announced.
His younger brother David posted a heart-wrenching clip on Harrison’s account, announcing Harrison’s passing and assuring followers the sports lover was not in pain when he passed.
“I just wanted to come on here and say thank you to everyone from around the world for their support and encouragement,” he said. “It really did mean a lot to him.”
Harrison is survived by his brother David; parents Trevor and Sonya; as well as his aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents. His funeral service will be held Friday, and his family is asking for donations to a charity made in his name.