Ady Barkan, a prominent attorney and liberal activist, known for his advocacy work on healthcare rights, has passed away at the age of 39, according to NBC News. Barkan's wife, Rachael Scarborough King, confirmed the news on Wednesday, revealing that he died from complications of ALS, the neurodegenerative disease he had been battling since 2016.

Barkan gained widespread recognition through the 2021 documentary "Not Going Quietly," directed by Nicholas Bruckman, which intimately documented his courageous fight for healthcare reform. The film followed Barkan on a national campaign to save the Affordable Care Act, shedding light on his personal struggles and determination in the face of adversity.

Throughout his life, Barkan tirelessly advocated for improving access to healthcare, utilizing his own experiences to raise awareness and inspire change. In 2018, he co-founded Be A Hero, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding healthcare access for all.

In a statement, Jamila Headley, the co-executive director of Be A Hero, highlighted Barkan's remarkable contributions. "Ady chose to use the time he had left fighting to create a country where healthcare is treated as a human right," she said. "His relentless campaigning made him one of the most prominent healthcare advocates in the nation."

Barkan's activism extended beyond his personal battle with ALS. He testified before Congress in 2019 at the first-ever Medicare for All hearing, engaging with Democratic presidential candidates in 2020 to discuss healthcare in America, and even spoke in prime-time at the Democratic National Convention. Until his final days, Barkan dedicated himself to working alongside the Be A Hero team, fighting against health insurance corporations to ensure fair and affordable healthcare options for all.

In Rachael's heartfelt message, she acknowledged the immense support they received throughout Barkan's health challenges. "Thank you to everyone who has supported Ady and our family over the years," she expressed. "Everyone should have the chance to receive the care they need."

Ady Barkan's legacy is one of courage, activism, and compassion. His unwavering determination to fight for a more just and equitable healthcare system has left an indelible mark on the nation. He is survived by his wife Rachael and their two children, Carl and Willow.

The news of Barkan's passing has reverberated throughout the activist community, where many are mourning the loss of a true champion for healthcare reform. His spirit and vision will continue to inspire those who carry forward the fight for accessible and compassionate healthcare for all.