DES MOINES, IA. (THECOUNT) — Family members local news outlets that Des Moines teen, Kenzy Larson, has died after multiple battles with cancer. She was 17.

Kenzy was diagnosed with cancer when she was nine years old. It returned for a seventh time and over the last few years we’ve watched her bravely fight the disease.

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At 7:51pm, Kenzy took her last breath to be with God surrounded by her family. I watched her take her first breath and held her as she took her last, reports KCCI.

Yesterday was her dear friend Tyler Cross’s heavenly birthday. I am sure he was the first to greet her with all those that loves her gone before her. Running again for the first time.

We ask for some privacy during this most difficult time in our lives. More information will come soon. We love you so much and miss you so much baby girl.

Her story and bravery even got the attention of Ellen DeGeneres in May.

Earlier this month, the teen and her family decided to stop treatment and spend her remaining time with friends and family.

Just two weeks ago at the state fair, Kenzy was named a “hero of the day.”

Geo quick facts: Des Moines is the capital city of Iowa. The gold-domed Iowa State Capitol building is among the 19th- and early-20th-century landmarks of the East Village area. The Des Moines Art Center is noted for its contemporary collections and Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Local produce and live music are draws at the Downtown Farmers’ Market. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has outdoor plant displays and a geodesic dome – wikipedia.