Parents in Leicester, England discovered a hidden note behind the bedroom mirror left by their 13-year-old daughter, Athena Orchard, who tragically passed away. Athena was known as a happy and cute girl who enjoyed sports, with boxing being her favorite hobby. She was caring and protective towards her six sisters and three brothers.
Athena’s journey with cancer began when she was 12 and discovered a lump on her head. Initially, she didn’t pay much attention to it until she collapsed in the kitchen. The doctors diagnosed her with skeleton cancer, a rare form of bone cancer.
The news of her cancer diagnosis was a shock to Athena and her family. She underwent a seven-hour long surgery to remove the tumor from her spine, followed by her first round of chemotherapy. As a result, she lost all her hair and her once-bubbly energy was replaced by bedridden weakness. Despite these challenges, Athena tried to remain strong and optimistic, which surprised and inspired her family.
Tragically, Athena passed away shortly after celebrating her 13th birthday, surrounded by her family. In the days following her death, her father, Dean, found a secret letter hidden behind the mirror in her room. The letter, totaling almost 3,000 words, was a heartbreaking goodbye written by Athena. Dean, unable to finish reading it, was stunned by its content and the depth of emotion expressed by his daughter.
In her letter, Athena shared her wisdom and comforting words of encouragement for those she left behind. She emphasized the power of personal happiness and the importance of finding meaning in life. Athena’s handwritten goodbye also touched on the fragility of love, the fleeting nature of life, and the importance of cherishing each day.
Despite her young age, Athena possessed a profound depth of character and a love for writing. Her words continue to inspire and immortalize her, as her family keeps the mirror with her message forever. The community also rallied around Athena, writing messages of love and support on their windows in her honor.
Athena’s message, written with such strength and positivity despite her illness, serves as an inspiration for others. Her words remind us to not take life for granted and to live each day as if it were our last. Though her passing breaks hearts, Athena’s legacy lives on through her family, friends, and the lives she touched during her time here.
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