Liza Burke’s lively spirit and adventurous nature touched the lives of all who knew her. Her courageous battle with illness, coupled with her zest for life, serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. While her loved ones mourn her passing, they also celebrate the profound impact she had on them and the world around them. Liz’s memory will live on through precious moments shared with family and friends, fond memories of her travels and discoveries, and lasting lessons of love, courage, and seizing the day. Although she may no longer be physically present, her legacy of living life to the fullest will continue to inspire and uplift those who carry her in their hearts.
The world is mourning Liza Burke, a 21-year-old senior at the University of Georgia who planned a last spring break trip before graduation for 53 friends. When she returned from the trip, it was discovered that a fatal brain tumor had caused a brain bleed.
Liza died on April 28, 2023, with her brother Jack by her side. According to her mother, Laura McKeithen, who also advised her not to “waste time worrying about stupid things”, she “lived through it for the most part”. Just do it. Liza’s sense of discovery inspired her to travel the world.
Liza’s mother recounted that Liza removed the ventilator from her mouth as soon as she woke up from sedation. Liza had trouble falling asleep because the tumor was stressing the area of ​​her brain that kept her awake.
Liza started her daily radiation treatments, went back, and enjoyed a few days with her loved ones.
But many days later, doctors discovered another brain bleed. Her mother said that when she was awake, she would wiggle her toes or grab her hand.
Because Liz’s mother hoped to avoid another intubation, hospice care was recommended.
Her mother decided to rent an Airbnb for a month by the sea.
On April 19, 2023, Liza and her immediate family moved into the home, with friends and grandparents visiting frequently. Liza died suddenly in the early hours of April 28, 2023, while sharing a bed with her brother Jack.
Daughter Liza sent a letter to her future self as part of a class assignment during her senior year of high school, and her mother received it on May 2, 2023.
Liza graduated the day after her death. The teacher promised to mail the letters to the students when they graduated. Although an adventurous and free-spirited soul has passed from this life, her legacy will be carried on by those close to her.
Liza Burke’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Despite a devastating illness, Liza lived her life with courage, drive, and a spirit of adventure that touched the hearts of all who knew her. Her journey, marked by love, resilience, and the unwavering support of her family and friends, serves as an inspiration to fully embrace life and never take a single day for granted. Although she may no longer be with us physically, Liz’s memory will continue to shine brightly and forever cherished by those whose lives she touched. May her legacy serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder to live with passion and purpose.