The 9-Year-Old Girl Who “Defies Gravity”

Brie Bird, just 9 years old, is fighting an unimaginable battle against stage 4 cancer — yet she remains a beacon of hope and resilience. A lifelong fan of Wicked, Brie’s doctors had once feared she wouldn’t make it to November, so in September, the cast of Wicked held a private family preview just for her.

But this weekend, a miracle happened: Brie is still here, still fighting, and still holding on — waiting for the official release of the film.

Though too weak to go to the theater, Brie sang along to her favorite Wicked songs and shared her excitement about the film with joy in her heart.  She received gifts from Ariana Grande and a touching, personal message from Cynthia Erivo, who hoped Brie could “fly” — just like Glinda.

With her health deteriorating, Brie’s family even celebrated Christmas early, cherishing every precious moment. On November 24, while making a stuffed animal, Brie whispered three simple wishes:
“The cancer goes away, I walk again, and I become a mom.”

Despite her small size, Brie’s heart and strength are limitless. She is a living testament to the power of love, hope, and the will to fight.

Brie is truly ‘defying gravity.’