As parents, one of our greatest fears is losing a child. The thought alone is enough to send shivers down our spines. Just imagine the pain and heartbreak it can bring. This was the tragic reality faced by Laura Hillier’s parents. Laura, a young and vibrant girl, was diagnosed with leukemia at the tender age of 13. After a four-year battle with the disease, she was declared cancer-free, only to have her hopes shattered as the cancer returned even stronger.
On January 20, 2016, Laura Hillier, a talented and popular student at Nelson High School in Canada, passed away. The news devastated her family and friends, who had been following her brave fight against her illness through a Facebook page created to keep everyone updated. In their announcement of Laura’s passing, her family described her as a courageous, strong, and spirited individual, who continued to shine until the very end.
To honor Laura’s memory and the indomitable courage she displayed throughout her life, her classmates and teachers planned a touching tribute for her funeral. They lovingly modified her casket to demonstrate just how deeply they loved and missed her. Photographs of Laura’s adorned casket quickly went viral, capturing the hearts of people all over the world.
Laura’s battle with acute myeloid leukemia began when she was just 13. Despite enduring numerous rounds of treatments, she managed to overcome cancer and regain her health. However, in May 2015, her worst fears were realized when the cancer came back more aggressively than before. Laura’s love for music and theater was well-known among those who knew her from Nelson High School.
In a beautiful display of camaraderie, Laura’s classmates decided to incorporate a tradition from their high school years into her funeral. Just as they would write heartfelt messages in yearbooks, they wished to send Laura off with a love-filled farewell befitting of a beloved friend and student. And so, her friends, family, teachers, classmates, neighbors, and hospital staff who cared for her, wrote their personal tributes directly on her casket.
The result was heartwarmingly beautiful. The entire surface of Laura’s casket was covered in handwritten messages of love and support. When Laura’s family read these greetings, they were overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness and support they received. One message read, “You were musical. You were artistic. You were understanding. You were my bestest friend.” Another heartfelt note said, “Very brave and strong. You will always be a hero.”
To honor Laura’s memory and her love for the color purple, the funeral was filled with purple flowers and her loved ones wore touches of purple in their attire. The sight was a testament to the impact that Laura had on her community.
Laura Hillier was taken from this world far too soon, but her story and the love she inspired continue to resonate with countless people. Her bravery and the show of support from her community serve as a reminder of the strength and compassion that can emerge from even the darkest of times.
Rest in peace, dear Laura.
