LOS ANGELES, July 3 — Lifestyle influencer Nara Smith has revealed that her two-year-old daughter, Whimsy Lou, is undergoing treatment for cancer, saying the family has spent months navigating the diagnosis in private.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the 24-year-old shared in an Instagram video on Wednesday that Whimsy Lou was diagnosed late last year after she and her husband, model Lucky Blue Smith, noticed something unusual on their daughter’s body and sought urgent medical attention.

Smith said the couple initially took Whimsy Lou to the emergency room before being referred to a paediatrician, who advised them to seek treatment at a children’s hospital.

“I just remember him going really quiet and calm, and my heart dropped in that moment,” she said, recalling the consultation with the paediatrician.

She said Whimsy Lou underwent a series of X-rays, ultrasounds and a biopsy before doctors confirmed the cancer diagnosis. 

Although Smith did not disclose the type of cancer, she said it had spread and her daughter had to begin chemotherapy.

The influencer, who gained widespread attention for her elaborate cooking videos recreating processed foods from scratch, said her daughter’s illness was one of the reasons she stepped back from social media.

Smith also said she found comfort through online communities and by connecting with other families caring for loved ones with cancer.

“Processing this and navigating this as a family has been really hard,” she said, adding that balancing her daughter’s treatment, caring for her other children, recovering after the birth of her youngest daughter and managing work had been emotionally challenging.

“Some days are a little easier. Some days are really hard,” she said.

Nara and Lucky Blue Smith married in 2020 and have four children together: daughters Rumble Honey, Whimsy Lou and Fawnie Golden, and son Slim Easy. 

Lucky Blue Smith also has a daughter from a previous relationship.

While Smith chose not to reveal further details about Whimsy Lou’s condition, she thanked the medical team that cared for her daughter.

“Thankful for each and every nurse and doctor along our journey who helped us get through and out the other end,” she wrote alongside the video.

According to the BBC, Smith’s announcement prompted an outpouring of support across social media, with her video attracting more than 25 million views on Instagram and TikTok.

Singer-songwriter Raye described Smith as her “beautiful superwoman friend”, while Leona Lewis said she was “sending so much love”. 

Influencer Haley Baylee also offered her support, writing: “Sending so much love and strength to your family.”

Singer Charlie Puth echoed the messages on TikTok, writing that “the whole world” was with Smith and her family, adding: “Our prayers are with you.”