TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Tampa Bay area woman who inspired many as she battled cancer passed away Sunday evening.MORE ABOUT MICHELLE: Tampa brain cancer patient reacts to Brittany Maynard’s decision to die

Michelle Boyd DeJong was diagnosed with brain cancer 23 months ago and was featured in multiple WFLA News Channel 8 stories. After her diagnosis, Michelle started an author page on Facebook and provided daily insight and inspiration throughout her fight against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).RELATED: Tampa female ‘Cancer Fighter’ to run in Miles for Moffitt

Often referred to as the “beautiful face of cancer” Michelle ran in the Miles for Moffit race while in the middle of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Almost immediately after being diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer, Michelle’s husband Ryan organized a team to participate in the Miles for Moffitt race.

He made the sad announcement about his wife’s death on her Facebook page on Valentine’s Day:

“Our fighter, my beautiful Valentine, Michelle, decided to take a rest last night. She fought for her final breath just before 6pm on Valentine’s Day. I held her all afternoon. Her father sang her a song and she passed with grace and peace. Later today she will make the ultimate contribution to the fight for a cure as she donates her tumor tissue for research. We love you all so much and we will continue her fight to inspire, to love, to enjoy life and to find a cure for this awful disease. Your loving support has been overwhelming. We’re so thankful for you! Please stay tuned for details regarding opportunities to celebrate her life and the impact she had made on ours!”

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