Beloved Food Influencer Dies Tragically at 33
When Australian food influencer Stacey Hatfield welcomed her first child, a son named Axel, at home on Sept. 29, 2025, the day was meant to be a celebration of new life and fulfilled dreams. Instead, it turned into a heartbreaking tragedy that stunned her followers and the wellness community alike. Just moments after the joyous birth, Stacey suffered an unforeseen and "extremely rare complication" that claimed her life despite the best efforts of hospital staff, as reported by PEOPLE. Her husband, Nathan Warnecke, shared the devastating news, painting a poignant picture of a woman who had finally realized her deepest wish to become a mother, only to be taken away too soon.
A Life Built on Natural Living and Family Values
Stacey Hatfield was more than just a social media star. She was a passionate advocate for toxin-free living and natural foods, building a brand that resonated with thousands who sought healthier lifestyles. Through her website, Natural Spoonfuls, and her Instagram presence, she inspired followers with recipes and wellness tips rooted in simplicity and purity. Her message was clear: health begins with what you put on your plate and how you nurture your body and soul.
Her husband described Stacey as a woman who was "most at home in nature, surrounded by trees and sand at her feet," with a book and a cup of green tea in hand, as reported by USA Today. She lived modestly, valuing experiences and relationships over material possessions. This grounded, wholesome image made her sudden passing all the more shocking to those who admired her.
The Day That Should Have Sparked Joy
The birth of Axel was the culmination of Stacey's biggest dream. Nathan Warnecke shared that Stacey had longed to be a mother and embraced her pregnancy with love and excitement. "It was her life's biggest dream to be a mum. She did it," Nathan shared, as reported by PEOPLE. "On her terms, exactly the way she always dreamed of doing it. She loved being pregnant and over the last 9 months told our son she loved him everyday." The home birth was a deeply personal choice, reflecting Stacey's commitment to doing things on her own terms and in harmony with her values.
But the joy was tragically short-lived. Shortly after Axel's arrival, Stacey experienced a rare postpartum complication that no one could have predicted. Despite being rushed to the hospital and receiving extraordinary care, the medical team was unable to save her. Nathan's words conveyed the profound loss felt by their family and community, describing Stacey as the "light of my life" and "the reason I got up in the morning," as reported by PEOPLE.
The Haunting Mix of Hope and Heartbreak
This story is a haunting blend of hope fulfilled and heartbreak unleashed. Stacey's journey to motherhood was a beacon of light for many who followed her, a testament to her strength and dedication. Yet, the suddenness of her death from an "extremely rare complication" leaves a lingering sense of mystery and sorrow.
Her husband's tribute revealed a man grappling with unimaginable grief, yet proud of the woman Stacey was and the legacy she left behind. He spoke of their nearly one-year marriage, their shared dreams, and the love that defined their life together. The couple had reportedly been just two months shy of their first wedding anniversary when Stacey passed, adding a layer of poignant timing to the tragedy.
A Community Rallies Around a Family in Mourning
In the wake of Stacey's death, friends and family have rallied to support Nathan and baby Axel. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover funeral expenses, household bills, baby supplies, and to provide Nathan with the time he needs to grieve and care for his son. According to The Independent, the fundraiser quickly gained traction, with the amount raised reaching $33,871 Australian dollars out of the $50,000 goal as of October 20, 2025, reflecting the deep affection and respect Stacey inspired in her community.
Nathan's work as a surveyor, often involving night shifts, means balancing single parenthood with demanding job responsibilities will be a challenge. The outpouring of support aims to ease this burden, allowing him to focus on healing and bonding with Axel during this devastating time.
The Legacy of a Wellness Icon
Stacey Hatfield's influence extended beyond recipes and lifestyle tips. She embodied a modern vision of wellness that embraced authenticity, family, and mindful living. Her brand, launched in 2019, grew into a beacon for those seeking to live toxin-free and embrace natural ingredients. She later expanded her reach by developing a social media content creation company, Waffl, further cementing her role as a tastemaker and entrepreneur.
Her sudden passing leaves a void in the wellness world, but her message endures. Followers remember her not just for her content but for the warmth, intelligence, and care she brought to every aspect of her life. Stacey's story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the power of dreams fulfilled, even when fate intervenes in the cruelest way.
When Dreams and Tragedy Collide
The tale of Stacey Hatfield's final day is a stark reminder that even the most hopeful moments can be shadowed by tragedy. Her home birth was a testament to her strength and vision, a moment of pure love and fulfillment. Yet, the rare complication that followed turned joy into grief, leaving those who loved her searching for answers.
References: Food Influencer Dies After Giving Birth at Home Following 'Rare Complication' | Stacey Hatfield of Natural Spoonfuls dies after birth of first child | Food influencer known for toxin-free lifestyle dies after giving birth to son following 'extremely rare complication'
