Her family posted on the Hope for Laura Facebook page, saying, “You all would have been really proud of her for her valiant battle.” Until the very end, her bravery, fortitude, poise, and pure soul were evident.

Laura’s casket was beautifully decorated with bright markings by her friends, family, and instructors as a memorial to her. People all throughout the world were inspired by the story and images as they went viral.

While awaiting a transplant, actress and musician Laura went tragically at the age of eighteen from acute myeloid leukemia. She passed away at a Canadian hospital surrounded by her loved ones.

Her friends and family desired a traditional “yearbook send-off” feel for her burial. Her coffin was transformed into a stunning yearbook with heartfelt notes inscribed in a variety of colors. One inscription said that life is a melody. You are free to sing as much as you like.

Purple, Laura’s favorite color, was used in the attire and flowers during the entire funeral service. In Laura’s memory, donations are accepted to Coast to Coast, a nationwide nonprofit organization whose mission is to end children cancer.