Notes Left Behind
Notes Left Behind is a book compiled by the parents of Elena Desserich. Elena was just five years old when she was diagnosed with brain cancer. Throughout her treatment time, Elena began writing love notes to her family and hiding them around the house. This book contains many of the hundreds of notes that Elena hid for her family to find after she died.
Elena lived a mere 255 days after her diagnosis but during that time period she was able to draw pictures and write hundreds of small notes, stuffing them in pockets, between books, in cd cases, between dishes in the china cabinet and every place imaginable throughout the Desserich home. Much to her parent’s surprise, months after Elena’s death they continued to find notes throughout the house.
Elena lived her last days to the fullest, making a list of all the things she imagined she might like to do. Those who read the book will be blessed to take that journey with her as she is granted last wishes, swims with dolphins, drives a car; And with her as she loses her ability to speak, wisely turning to painting and drawing as a tool to speak for her. At the age of six, Elena goes on to paint a literal masterpiece that was hung in an art museum and inadvertently, through the joy and love in her heart…write a book that will touch the hearts of many.
Elena’s parents are open and frank as they share their own personal journey in Notes Left Behind. Their story has touched many others with a type of strength and encouragement that only comes from love. The inspiration from their daughter and the amazing love she displayed in her short life-time comes across vividly in Elena’s notes and in her parent’s stories.
Whether you are a cancer survivor, love someone who has had cancer or just love a touching story filled with family and love, this book is a beautiful find. Know someone who needs a reminder about the value and meaning of life? This is the book for them!
Elena’s parents used the strength their daughter’s love notes gave them to turn her words into a book whose profits will garner funds for a non-profit organization supporting research for pediatric brain cancer called “The Cure Starts Now”.
The Desserich family founded “The Cure Starts Now” after Elena’s death. The organization includes an awareness campaign, fundraising, merchandise to support the cause and a survivor’s network. If you’d like more information or care to donate to their cause, check out their website at Thecurestartsnow.org.
…and a little child shall lead them. Isaiah 11:6
And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love, lives in God, and God in Him. 1 John 4:16
Mark Harris..."Wish You Were Here"
Comments
Elena Desserich always dreamed of being a teacher ! I think her legacy proves that she always was a teacher and her enthusiasm for life will always be cherished !
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