Lizzy’s story is one of courage and determination, with her at its center as she bravely navigates the stormy seas of bullying related to her weight and endures the relentless pain from debilitating headaches due to brain swelling. Despite these challenges, Lizzy’s spirit remains unyielded, her resilience shining as a source of strength for those around her.
Her passion for dance remains unwavering, providing her with a refuge where she can find peace amid life’s turmoil. Even after undergoing four challenging treatments in the past year, her love for dancing only intensifies, reflecting her fierce determination and unbreakable spirit.
Since her diagnosis in 2016, Lizzy’s educational path shifted to homeschooling to meet her medical requirements. The familiar school environment was replaced by numerous doctor’s appointments, each visit serving as a reminder of her daily struggles. Nevertheless, Lizzy persists, fueled by dreams of a brighter future that propel her forward with steadfast determination.
In the serene moments between medical check-ups and dance classes, Lizzy dares to dream. She imagines a future where she can contribute meaningfully, whether it’s through exploring the intricacies of the human mind as a forensic psychologist or enchanting audiences with her dance performances. Her aspirations illuminate her journey, filled with hope and endless possibilities.
Ultimately, Lizzy’s hard work and tenacity bear fruit in the most extraordinary ways. Defying the odds, she realizes her dream of becoming a professional dancer, transforming her journey into a powerful testament to resilience and the human spirit’s capacity for triumph. As she steps into the spotlight, Lizzy’s narrative transcends her individual experience, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who dare to pursue their dreams despite adversity.
Girl’s letter to her future self, written months before she passed away
What most teenagers dream of is to go to college, travel the world, and have many friends. 12-year-old Taylor Smith, of Johnson City, Tennessee, was no different. This girl spent her days around her family and friends and loved watching a lot of Doctor Who.
Smith outlined these plans in a letter she wrote to her future self in April 2013. The letter was placed inside a box in her room with the instruction “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 12, 2023 only (unless said otherwise).”
Unfortunately, she didn’t live long enough to see whether those dreams would be accomplished. Just months after she wrote that letter, Taylor died of complications from a sudden onset of pneumonia.
Her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, were heartbroken. They couldn’t believe their girl was forever gone.
One day, as they were sorting through her possessions, they found the letter. As it touched them deeply, they decided to share it online and give others some solace.
As she shared her daughter’s letter, Marry Ellen wrote: “I can’t physically resurrect her, I can’t bring her back, but
I’m so grateful people have been inspired by her story.”
Below is Taylor’s letter and the words she wrote to herself.
Dear Taylor,
How’s life? Life is pretty simple right now (10 years in your past). I know I’m late for you, but as I’m writing, this is early, so; congratulations on graduating high school! If you didn’t, go back and keep trying. Get that degree! Are you (we) in college? If not, I understand. We do have pretty good reasoning, after all.
Don’t forget, it’s Allana’s 11th birthday today! Sheesh, 11 already? In my time, she just turned 1! I didn’t get to go to that party though, because I was in Cranks, Kentucky for my first mission trip. I’ve only been back for 6 days!
Speaking of, how’s your relationship with GOD? Have you prayed, worshipped, read the bible, or gone to serve the lord recently? If not, get up and do so NOW! I don’t care what point in our life we’re in right now, do it! He was mocked, beaten, tortured, and crucified for you! A sinless man, who never did you or any other person any wrong!
Now, have you gone on any more mission trips? Have you been out of the country yet? How about on a plane?
Is Doctor Who still on the air? If not, what regeneration did they end it with? You should go watch some Doctor Who! Later though, you gotta finish reading your own words of wisdom!
Do you have your own place yet? If we’re in college, what are we majoring in? Right now, I wanna be a lawyer.
Have you been to Dollywood recently? Right now, their newest attraction is the Wild Eagle. It’s so fun!
Also I think I’m going to sell my iPad and buy an iPad mini, Don’t forget to tell your kids that we’re older than the tablet! Attached I also have a drawing of an iPad, so you can show them.
Well, I think that’s all. But remember, it’s been 10 years since I wrote this. Stuff has happened, good and bad. That’s just how life works, and you have to go with it.
Sincerely, Taylor Smith
Beautiful words from an angel who was taken away from her family too soon!
If you were touched by Taylor’s words as much as we were, please share this story in her memory.
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