The heartbreaking story of 6-year-old Leland Shoemake from Williamson, Georgia, highlights the devastating reality of losing a child to illness. Leland, an ordinary yet exceptional child, charmed everyone with his infectious happiness, intelligence, and love for learning. His mother, Amber Shoemake, fondly recalls his early achievements, saying, “He knew his abc’s, numbers, colors, shapes and 20 sight words by the time he was a year old.”
In 2015, Leland fell seriously ill, leading to a swift hospital admission. Doctors discovered a brain infection caused by the amoeba Balamuthia mandrillaris, possibly contracted during outdoor play. Despite initial confusion about his illness, further investigation confirmed the rare amoebic infection in his brain.
Leland faced severe symptoms, including headaches, fever, vomiting, and crossed eyes. Despite his valiant fight, he passed away on September 25, 2015. His parents, returning home in grief, discovered a poignant note from Leland expressing gratitude and love.
Amidst their sorrow, Leland’s parents found solace in his final note, which read: “Stil (sic) with you… Thank you mom and dad… Love.” This heartfelt message, accompanied by a red heart drawing with the words “mom,” “dad,” and “love,” became a source of profound comfort.
Leland’s note, a testament to his special nature, serves as a bittersweet reminder of the love and connection shared with his family. Amber Shoemake reflects, “We have no idea when he wrote it but you can tell he was always a special child.” Leland’s memory lives on through the Leland Shoemake Foundation, offering comfort to others facing the unimaginable loss of a child.
