Meet Stephen Sutton, the British teen with cancer who inspired millions

The British teen with cancer who raised more than $5.6 million for charity died in his sleep Wednesday morning, his mom said.

Stephen Sutton, 19,

was diagnosed with bowel cancer at age 15. He chronicled his progress on social media, inspiring thousands of people all over the world with his fund-raising efforts and positive attitude.

“My heart is bursting with pride but breaking with pain for my courageous, selfless, inspirational son who passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of this morning, Wednesday 14th May,” Sutton’s mom wrote on Facebook. “The ongoing support and outpouring of love for Stephen will help greatly at this difficult time, in the same way as it helped Stephen throughout his journey.”

Prime Minister David Cameron, who visited the teen in April, comedian Ricky Gervais and singer Barry Manilow were among the hundreds who paid tribute to Sutton on social media after learning of his passing.

“I'm deeply saddened to hear that Stephen Sutton has died. His spirit, bravery and fundraising for cancer research were all an inspiration,” Cameron tweeted.

“RIP Stephen Sutton. A true hero & inspiration to us all. #stephensstory,” Gervais wrote.

“#StephenSutton #Hero What an inspiring and beautiful soul,” Manilow wrote.

In January 2013, Sutton found out his cancer

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