Laura Hillier’s courageous journey began at just thirteen when she received a life-changing diagnosis of leukemia. For four tenacious years, she defied the odds, basking in the joy of forgiveness and the hope of a future free of the disease that had once threatened her. But fate dealt a cruel hand when the relentless cancer returned and shattered the peace of her hard-won victory.
On January 20, 2016, the vibrant halls of Nelson High School in Ontario, Canada were silenced by the news of Laura’s death. A distinguished student adored by peers and teachers alike for her extraordinary talent and contagious energy, she succumbed to the merciless grip of acute myeloid leukemia. The loss reverberated through the community and left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those touched by her spirit.
After Laura died, her family took to the Hope for Laura Facebook page, a platform to gain support during her uphill battle. In a heartfelt tribute to their beloved daughter, they shared the heartbreaking news and praised Laura’s unwavering bravery and her indomitable spirit in the face of a relentless illness. They painted a portrait of a valiant warrior whose courage remained steadfast until her last breath.
“You would all be extremely proud of her for her brave fight. Her composure, bravery, strength,h and genuine spirit were evident until the very end.”
In honor of Laura, her family, friends, and teachers decided to decorate the casket with glitter markers to create a beautiful piece of art.
The images and story quickly went viral and influenced people around the world, even strangers.
At the age of 18, Laura Hillier died on January 20, 2016. Suffering from acute myeloid leukemia, she died while waiting for a transplant.
Laura died in a Canadian hospital surrounded by her loved ones.
When Laura was thirteen years old, she received her first cancer diagnosis. She was in remission for four years before relapsing in May of this year.
Laura was known for her love of drama and music at Nelson High School in Ontario.
Her 12th-grade yearbook was delivered to her before she died, but her classmates and relatives insisted her funeral look like a traditional “yearbook send-off.”
Together, Laura’s friends, neighbors, teachers, classmates, health professionals, and co-workers turned her casket into an outstanding yearbook to honor her life, infectious energy, and extraordinary talent.
There were heartfelt notes written all over the casket in different colors.
Laura’s stark white coffin with its brightly colored inscriptions became an internet sensation. The inscriptions are touching, personal, and full of heart.
You had a musical voice. You had artistic talent. You showed understanding. My best friend was you.
Life is a song. Sing it as loud as you can.
incredibly strong and courageous. You will forever be a hero.
Purple, Laura’s favorite color, was also expertly incorporated into every aspect of the funeral service, from the beautiful flowers to the attendees’ attire, which included ties and scarves.
Laura Hillier’s life and legacy remain a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Her journey, marked by courage, strength, and an unwavering zest for life, continues to inspire countless individuals around the world. As her story draws to a close, it leaves us with a poignant reminder of the impact one person can have on the lives of many.
The outpouring of love, support, and creativity following Laura’s death showed the enduring power of compassion and human connection. The live messages adorning her casket weren’t just colorful expressions; were heartfelt testimonies of Laura’s profound impact on her community and beyond.
Encapsulated in these colorful inscriptions, her story has traveled across continents, touching hearts and inspiring others to embrace life with the same vigor that Laura displayed every day. It has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and the importance of cherishing every moment.
As Laura’s legacy continues to transcend time, her memory lives on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her, and even those who were touched by her story from afar. Her journey serves as a poignant reminder to seize every opportunity, live with passion, and face challenges with unwavering determination.
While Laura’s physical presence may be gone, her vibrant spirit lives on, leaving behind a colorful tapestry of love, inspiration, and resilience. Her legacy serves as a guiding light, encouraging us to navigate life’s challenges with grace, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the power of hope.
In honoring Laura Hillier’s memory, we pledge to continue the fight against childhood cancer, to cherish each day as a precious gift, and to carry on her legacy of strength and compassion. Her story remains engraved in our hearts, a beautiful testimony of a life that illuminated the world with its brilliance and left an eternal impression that time cannot fade. Laura’s spirit lives on – a beacon of courage, love, and unwavering determination – a legacy that will endure for generations to come.