On 29 September 2025, Stacey gave birth to her first child, a son named Axel, at home. The delivery itself was successful, but shortly afterwards she experienced “an unforeseen and extremely rare complication”, which led to her being transferred to hospital and ultimately passing away.
Who She Was
Stacey Hatfield built a strong personal brand in the nutrition and food content space:
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She founded the website and Instagram account Natural Spoonfuls, through which she described herself as a “low-tox nutritionist and food content creator”.
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She later co-founded a social-media content company named Waffl. People.com+1
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She had been pursuing her dream of motherhood and shared that journey publicly. Her husband said that becoming a mother had been her “life’s biggest dream… on her terms, exactly the way she always dreamed of doing it.”
Her husband, Nathan Warnecke, described Stacey as “the love of my life… my best friend… my lighthouse in the storm” and said “the world is less bright without her in it.”
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The homebirth took place in Melbourne, Australia.
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The precise nature of the complication has not been publicly disclosed; investigations by the coroner are reportedly underway.
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The couple had known each other for nine years and were approaching their first wedding anniversary. New York Post
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In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist Nathan and baby Axel with funeral costs, household bills and parental leave. The campaign had raised tens of thousands of Australian dollars.
Broader Reflection
Stacey’s death is a stark reminder of how vulnerable post-partum periods can be—even when a birth goes smoothly. While homebirths are chosen for numerous reasons, including personal preference and comfort, experts emphasise the importance of planning for emergencies.
In Australia, authorities have warned that homebirths without qualified midwives or doctors present may carry increased risks, particularly if complications arise.
Legacy & Tribute
Though her life was cut tragically short, Stacey left behind:
