Telha
Losing a child is one of the most heartbreaking realities parents can face.
Whether through tragic accidents, battles with cancer, or other devastating illnesses.
Leland Shoemake was a vibrant 6-year-old from Williamson, Georgia.
Known for his infectious joy, sharp intellect, and creativity, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
”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 loved school and loved to learn. He loved the History Channel, the Weather Channel, documentaries, and anything about history,” his mother, Amber Shoemake, shared on social media.
Under different circumstances, Leland’s story might not have reached beyond his local community, but fate had a different plan.
A Sudden Illness
In 2015, Leland unexpectedly fell ill and was quickly hospitalized. His condition worsened rapidly, and doctors soon discovered he had contracted a rare brain infection caused by the amoeba Balamuthia mandrillaris. While no one could pinpoint how he was exposed, it’s possible he encountered the bacteria while playing outside.
”The one thing he loved most was playing in the dirt,” Mrs. Shoemake shared on Facebook.
”I never imagined that would be the thing that would take him from me.”
At first, doctors were unsure of what was causing his symptoms, initially suspecting meningitis. Further tests confirmed it was an amebic infection in his brain.
”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,” his mother wrote on the family’s GoFundMe page.
Despite fighting valiantly, Leland passed away on September 25, 2015.
A Heartbreaking Discovery
After saying their final goodbyes, Leland’s parents returned home, consumed by grief. Amid their sorrow, their attention was drawn to a piece of paper on the living room table.
Known for leaving sweet notes and drawings, Leland had left behind one final message for his parents.
The note read: “Stil (sic) with you… Thank you mom and dad… Love.” He also drew a red heart with the words “mom,” “dad,” and “love” inside.
It’s unimaginable how much comfort and meaning that note must have brought his grieving parents in their darkest moments. It served as a bittersweet reminder of their son’s love, offering a sliver of solace amid the overwhelming pain.
”We have no idea when he wrote it, but you can tell he was always a special child,” Amber said.
A Mother’s Tribute
Amber later shared her thoughts and memories of her son through The Leland Shoemake Foundation:
*”I was overprotective of Leland and tried my best to keep him safe. 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. 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.
Boy was smart from day one
Little one loved school and loved to learn. Also he loved the History Channel, the Weather Channel, documentaries, and anything about history. He loved ships like the Titanic and learning about things like WWII. He was perfect. His favorite movie was Jaws. His favorite director was Steven Spielberg. And his favorite actor was Adam Sandler.
He loved his brother and his family so much. He was the life of every party. His smile could light up a city. He was the smartest, most caring, loving little boy there ever was.
He could have done great things in this world. 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.
When Tim and I came home for the first time to get him clothes to be buried in, this is the note we found from him on the table in the living room. We have no idea when he wrote it, but you can tell he was always a special child.
We will love you forever, Leland. Sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite!”
Remembering Leland
Burying a child is an unimaginable pain. But in their grief, Leland’s parents have found hope in sharing his story, ensuring that his memory lives on.
Leland’s story is a poignant reminder to cherish every moment with loved ones and to find strength even in life’s most heart-wrenching challenges.
