The husband of nursing influencer Hailey Okula recently shared “some raw, unedited videos” from their magical wedding day on his wife’s Instagram story. This poignant tribute came just days after he announced her tragic death due to complications during childbirth, a devastating loss that has resonated deeply within their community.

Despite the heartache, their son, Crew, survived, bringing a glimmer of hope amidst the sorrow.

In one touching video, the couple can be seen beaming with joy as they share their first dance to Amanda Jordan’s “I Choose You.” Matthew captioned the clip, “Our first dance. I want everyone to see a little more about who Hailey was outside of her professional persona, Rnnewgrads, and how much joy she brought into my life and the lives of others.

Hailey founded RN New Grads, an initiative designed to assist newly graduated nurses in launching their careers. Her vision expanded this program into a comprehensive platform that offers a wealth of resources for nursing professionals. According to her website, “We now provide educational materials, interview guidance, and even feature stylish nursing apparel and accessories to express your pride as a nurse,” showcasing her dedication to the nursing community.

In addition to sharing valuable resources, Hailey, who boasted over 425,000 followers on Instagram and more than 200,000 on TikTok under the username “@rnnewgrads,” openly documented her lengthy struggles with fertility, her journey through IVF, and her experiences during her pregnancy after she announced her pregnancy in September 2024. Her openness resonated with many, providing support to others facing similar challenges.

In another heartfelt video, he poignantly wrote, “I choose you,” paying tribute to the unwavering love they shared throughout their relationship.

He also shared a joyful clip of his wife exuberantly jumping with him and their wedding guests to Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!” He wrote, “This is the Hailey I fell in love with. This video will definitely be reposted again later.” This highlights the vibrant spirit she brought to their lives.

On Tuesday, the firefighter from the Los Angeles Fire Department shared devastating news on Instagram, revealing that his beloved wife died shortly after they welcomed their first child, a baby boy named Crew. Hailey tragically passed away due to “complications” during childbirth, following a prolonged struggle with infertility that they had faced together.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I share the devastating news of the unexpected passing of my beautiful wife, Hailey Marie Okula, due to complications from childbirth,” Matthew began. “Words cannot convey the depth of the loss I feel. Hailey was more than I could have ever dreamed of in a wife and partner. She was beautiful, smart, hardworking, passionate, reliable, and above all else, unbelievably loyal. For almost 13 years, she stood by my side during the toughest times, loving me endlessly, even when I felt unworthy of that love. She was my everything.”

“Hailey’s strength was unparalleled. Words cannot express how desperately we wanted to be parents. After years of infertility struggles and a long, challenging IVF process, we were overjoyed to expect Crew,” he continued. This statement reflects the emotional rollercoaster they experienced on their path to parenthood.

“Hailey faced every hurdle with immense courage and love — even though her body endured so much, she never wavered. I will never forget the moment I broke down, apologizing for the toll the process would take on her. She held my face, looked into my eyes, and said, ‘We’re a team, and we’ll get through this together.’ That was Hailey. A warrior. A teammate. A woman who would do anything for the people she loved,” he shared, highlighting her indomitable spirit and fierce dedication.

“Although her time with us was tragically cut short, Hailey’s love for Crew was boundless, long before he entered this world. She would have been the most amazing mother. Her spirit, bravery, and love will live on in our son and through everyone whose lives she touched,” Matthew added, emphasizing the legacy of love she leaves behind.

“Hailey poured her heart into her career as a nurse and her passion for teaching others through her business, RN New Grads. She was immensely proud of it and dedicated to creating something meaningful, not just for herself but for the nursing community she cherished deeply. She dreamed of helping new nurses prosper while also being present for our sweet Crew, building a life and legacy she was immensely proud of,” he said, showcasing her commitment to her profession and her family.

Matthew’s post on Tuesday featured an emotional video montage of photographs and clips from their years together, including their journey to conceive, footage from the hospital, and a heartwarming snapshot of baby Crew. This collection serves as a poignant reminder of their love and the life they built together.

Matthew also opened up about the tragedy during an interview with FOX 11, sharing his heart-wrenching experience.

According to the report, just “two minutes” after Crew was born, Hailey expressed, “I don’t feel good,” and went into cardiac arrest, a harrowing moment that changed their lives forever.

Matthew, who was visibly emotional, recounted the horror he experienced in the hospital moments following Crew’s delivery. He stated that the doctors informed him his wife suffered from a “very, very rare complication” known as amniotic fluid embolism. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this condition is a rare and life-threatening complication that occurs when amniotic fluid enters the bloodstream just before, during, or immediately after childbirth.

“She gave her life in the most noble way. She was able to see him for a split second, and I will always remember that,” Matthew said, his voice choked with emotion, capturing the profound loss and love he feels.