It’s a deeply sad truth that parents sometimes have to face the unimaginable loss of their children due to tragic accidents, battles with cancer, or other serious illnesses. This story is about a bright and joyful little boy named Leland Shoemake, and it’s an emotional journey that might tug at your heartstrings. So, grab some tissues, because this story is truly touching.
Leland Shoemake was just a regular 6-year-old boy from Williamson, Georgia. But he was anything but ordinary to those who knew him. His laughter was contagious, his intelligence was impressive, and his creativity shone brightly. He made a lasting impression on everyone around him.
His mother, Amber Shoemake, shared on social media, “He knew his abc’s, numbers, colors, shapes, and 20 sight words by the time he was a year old. He was our little nerd, and we loved that about him. He adored school and loved to learn. He was fascinated by the History Channel, the Weather Channel, documentaries, and anything about history.”
Under different circumstances, Leland might have remained a cherished memory within his family. But fate had other plans for him.
A Sudden Illness
Everything changed in 2015 when Leland suddenly fell ill. His parents rushed him to the hospital, but his condition worsened quickly. Doctors were puzzled at first, suspecting meningitis. But after more tests, they discovered something shocking: Leland had a brain infection caused by a rare amoeba called Balamuthia mandrillaris.
No one knew how he had contracted this dangerous bacteria, but it was possible he had come into contact with it while playing outside.
Amber reflected on Leland’s love for the outdoors, saying, “The one thing he loved most was playing in the dirt. I never imagined that would be the thing that would take him from me.”
Leland faced a tough battle. He experienced severe headaches, fever, vomiting, and dizziness. His mother described his struggles on their family’s GoFundMe page, saying, “He has had bad headaches, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and now his eyes are crossed and he can’t focus on anything without his eyes moving and seeing double.”
Despite his brave fight, Leland passed away on September 25, 2015.
A Heartfelt Goodbye
When Amber and her husband returned home from the hospital after saying goodbye to their beloved son, they were engulfed in sorrow. But as they entered their living room, something caught their eye—a note resting on the table. This note was from Leland, who had a sweet habit of leaving little messages and drawings for his parents.
The note read: “Stil (sic) with you… Thank you mom and dad… Love.” Along with the words, Leland had drawn a red heart filled with the words “mom,” “dad,” and “love.”
Can you imagine the comfort this note brought to Amber and her husband during such a painful time? It was a bittersweet reminder of the love they shared, a small light in their dark moment.
Amber later reflected on the note, saying, “We have no idea when he wrote it, but you can tell he was always a special child.”
Remembering Leland
Amber shared her heartache with the world, saying, “I was overprotective of Leland and tried my best to keep him safe. He was my world. He made me a mother. We struggled so hard to have him. He was a preemie baby but came out screaming and healthy. He was smart from day one. He was perfect.”
She recalled Leland’s interests, saying, “His favorite movie was Jaws. His favorite director was Steven Spielberg. And his favorite actor was Adam Sandler.” She remembered how much he loved his family and how his smile could brighten any room. “He was the life of every party,” she said. “He never met a stranger and loved everyone.”
Leland’s absence left a huge void in their lives. Amber expressed her deepest fears, saying, “My whole life, this has been my only fear, and it came true. No one should ever have to bury a child. I always said I hope it’s me that goes first because I don’t think I’m strong enough to handle something like this.”
Even now, she struggles to accept the reality of losing him. “It still doesn’t seem real to me,” she shared. “I count the days until I can see his sweet face again and hear that beautiful voice.”
When Amber and her husband returned home for the first time to gather clothes for Leland’s burial, they found his note. It was a small piece of his spirit that remained with them, a reminder of his love and joy.
A Legacy of Love
Burying a child is the most heartbreaking experience a parent can endure. Yet, even amid their unimaginable pain, Amber and her husband hope to keep Leland’s memory alive. They want to share his story so that he is never forgotten.
Amber wrote, “We will love you forever, Leland. Sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite!”
Let us remember Leland for the incredible young boy he was. His story reminds us all to cherish every moment we have with our loved ones because life can change in an instant.
What do you think of Leland’s story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
