When young Laura Hillier was just thirteen, her life took an unexpected turn with a diagnosis of leukemia. Despite a period of remission for four years, the relentless illness returned. On January 20, 2016, Laura’s battle came to a sad end. Known for her talent and passion at Nelson High School in Ontario, Canada, her passing left a void in the hearts of many.
Her family shared their sorrow and pride on a Facebook page dedicated to her fight. They wrote, “You all would have been really proud of her for her valiant battle. Until the very end, her composure, bravery, strength, and unadulterated spirit were evident.” These words encapsulated the courage and resilience Laura exhibited throughout her journey.
In a touching tribute to celebrate Laura’s life, her loved ones transformed her casket into a canvas filled with vibrant colors and heartfelt messages. Friends, family, and teachers used colorful markers to create a beautiful work of art, turning her final resting place into a symbol of love and remembrance. The imagery and the story soon captivated hearts worldwide, as photos of the decorated casket spread across social media, moving people from all walks of life.
Laura, whose heart resonated with music and drama, succumbed to acute myeloid leukemia at the tender age of 18. As she awaited a transplant, alongside the support of her family and friends, she bravely faced her illness at a Canadian hospital. Her passing was surrounded by her loved ones, celebrating the profound impact she made during her brief time.
Inspired by Laura’s spirit, her friends and family arranged her funeral to resemble a traditional “yearbook send-off,” reminiscent of a high school graduation. Her coffin became a moving yearbook, filled with loving notes in hues as varied as their sentiments. One poignant line captured the essence of her life: “Life is a melody. Sing as much as you want to.”
Purple, the color Laura adored, wove its way through every part of the ceremony, from the blooms that lined the venue to the attire of those who attended. An expression of continuity and hope, donations in Laura’s honor were directed to Coast to Coast, a national organization dedicated to the fight against childhood cancer.
This celebration of life, decorated with love and cherished memories, not only remembered a young woman taken too soon but also underscored the unity and compassion of a community inspired by Laura’s life. Each message on her coffin carried a part of the lives she touched, ensuring her story would continue to resonate with those she left behind.