It’s a heartbreaking reality that sometimes parents have to face the unimaginable loss of their little ones. The story of 6-year-old Leland Shoemake is one that will surely tug at your heartstrings.
Leland Shoemake was an ordinary 6-year-old boy from Williamson, Georgia. He had an infectious happiness, a sharp intellect, and a creative spirit that left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
According to his mother, Amber Shoemake, Leland was an exceptional child. He learned his ABCs, numbers, colors, shapes, and 20 sight words by the time he was just a year old. He loved school, learning, and was fascinated by subjects like history, weather, and documentaries.
In 2015, Leland fell ill and was quickly admitted to the hospital. His condition rapidly deteriorated, and doctors discovered that he had a brain infection caused by the amoeba Balamuthia mandrillaris. It was unclear how Leland came into contact with the bacteria, but it’s suspected that it may have been while he was playing outdoors.
“He loved playing in the dirt,” Mrs. Shoemake wrote on her Facebook post. “I never imagined that would be the thing that would take him from me.”
Initially, medical professionals thought Leland had meningitis, but upon further investigation, they confirmed the amebic infection in his brain. Leland fought valiantly for his life but tragically passed away on September 25, 2015.
As Leland’s parents returned home from the hospital, consumed by grief, they noticed something on the family’s living room table. Leland, known for leaving sweet notes and drawings for his parents, had left one last heartfelt message.
The note read: ‘Stil (sic) with you… Thank you mom and dad… Love.’ Alongside the words was a red heart with the names ‘mom,’ ‘dad,’ and ‘love’ written inside.
It’s difficult to comprehend the depth of meaning and comfort that note brought to Leland’s grieving parents during such a devastating time. It served as a bittersweet reminder of the love they shared with their beloved son, offering a glimmer of solace amidst their profound loss.
“We have no idea when he wrote it, but you can tell he was always a special child,” his mother expressed.
Leland Shoemake may be gone, but his memory lives on in the hearts of his parents and all those who were touched by his spirit. His story serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment with our loved ones and to find strength and comfort in the most unexpected places.
“We will love you forever Leland. Sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite!”
