There’s nothing a parent fears more than losing a child. This was the heartbreaking reality for Laura Hillier’s parents. Laura was diagnosed with leukemia at just 13 years old. After being declared cancer-free four years later, the disease cruelly came back.
Laura, a talented and well-loved student at Nelson High School in Ontario, Canada, passed away on January 20, 2016. Her family shared the news on a Facebook page created to update friends and followers about her battle.
Her family wrote, “She fought bravely, and everyone would have been so proud of her. Her poise, courage, strength, and spirit were evident until the end.”
To honor Laura and her bravery, her classmates and teachers did something special for her funeral. They customized her casket to reflect their love and admiration for her.
Soon, pictures of Laura’s unique casket were shared online, and it’s clear why they attracted so much attention.
In late January 2016, 18-year-old Laura Hillier passed away from acute myeloid leukemia while waiting for a transplant.
Laura’s battle with cancer started when she was 13. After four difficult years and many treatments, she was declared cancer-free. Sadly, the leukemia returned, and she passed away surrounded by her loved ones in the hospital.
Sadly, in May 2015, Laura’s cancer came back and was much more aggressive.
Laura, who went to Nelson High School in Ontario, Canada, was known for her passion for music and theater.
To give Laura a special farewell, her classmates decided to do something unique. They took the idea of writing notes in yearbooks and used it for Laura’s funeral. They wanted her to receive a heartfelt goodbye from her friends and classmates.
The result was truly touching. To honor Laura’s life, her friends, family, neighbors, teachers, classmates, and hospital staff all wrote heartfelt messages on her casket.
Their handwritten notes covered the entire coffin, making it a beautiful tribute to her.
Laura’s family was deeply moved by all the support they received when they read the messages on her casket.
One message said: “You were musical, artistic, and understanding. You were my best friend.”
Another message read: “You were very brave and strong. You will always be a hero.”
Purple, Laura’s favorite color, was on prominent display during the funeral. The church was adorned with purple flowers, while everyone present at the wedding had purple on display somewhere on their clothes.
It should go without saying that Laura was taken too early from this earth, but it’s undeniably heartwarming to see the outpouring of love from her local community.
Rest in peace, Laura.