LEVIS--Laura Beth,
(January 2, 1982 to September 22, 2016), 34, was a vibrant, beautiful woman who loved animals, the Yankees, lifting weights, scary movies, iced coffee, cooking paleo, making funny faces, shopping, hiking, her BFFs, the Avett Brothers, the Isle of Skye, and above all her family, including parents Dr. William and Georgia Levis of Manhattan, with whom she laughed daily, and husband Peter DeMarco, her best friend, whom she married in Bar Harbor in 2014. Laura grew up on Staten Island, attended Poly Prep in Brooklyn ('00), starring in basketball, and graduated from Emerson College ('04). She worked at the Boston Globe, where she met Pete, before joining Harvard Magazine and the Harvard Gazette as a digital editor and writer. She lived in Somerville, MA. Laura is survived by half- brothers William Levis of Manhattan and Robert Levis; uncle Bob Levis of Manhattan; and sisters-in-law Henrietta and Catlin Levis. She was a proud aunt to Jessica, Katie, Summer, and Kyle Levis; Amber and Wyatt Levis of Manhattan; and Samantha, Alex and Patrick Marcoux. Her late grandparents were Mel and Mary Jo Barnett, and William and Edna Levis. She was daughter-in-law to Samuel and Nancy DeMarco of Lynnfield, MA and was a loving cat mom to Cola, Puma and Evie. A severe asthma attack took Laura's life. She'd wish all to understand the risks (to donate: www.mcdonaldfs.com) No funeral is planned; a life celebration is forthcoming. Lastly, Laura was an organ donor, including her wonderful heart. She will be missed forever.
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February 26, 2020
Ayla Lawrence
January 31, 2019
rob nieves
Although I did not know you personally, I felt close to you after reading your husbands article in the NYT.I can only hope you are in a kind and wonderful place. Thank you for your life and for your family. Indeed,you left behind many lights
for others to see the path.Thank you.
November 6, 2018
Teacher
Nancy Seymour
I am so very sorry for the loss of such an extraordinary young woman in our world. I read Laura's story written by Peter in the Boston Globe. I was so moved by her impactful short life and her tragic ending. The video moved me to utilize her story for us all to learn from. I am a professor of nursing and will share Laura's story with my students, in addition to sharing on LinkedIn. Bless you Peter for having the courage to share Laura's story to drive us to never let this happen to anyone again. Your showing such love, such bravery, such gratefulness, such courage and such compassion to have her be a organ and tissue donor is incredibly moving. Laura's story is an inspiration to us all on so many levels. I am truly sorry for the loss of such a powerful soul. Blessings to all her loved her.
May 29, 2018
an inspirting story, and so saddened; michelle from toronto
[email protected]
February 23, 2018
Bryan Marquard
The passage of 17 months hasn't made Laura's absence any easier.
October 18, 2017
Mary Murphy
Dear Peter, I have been a nurse for many years, your story touched my soul in a very special way. I'm so sorry that you lost the love of your life, she sounds like a someone that I would have loved to have known. It is so special that you got to bring Cola to see her in her last days. My heart goes out to all of her family and friends, especially her parents, for this tragic, senseless loss. I feel like I know you after reading you story, even though I've never met you. You and Laura sound like such lovely people. I'm glad you had the time that you had with her, I really wish you could have had much more. Things really don't make much sense sometimes. I've seen it so many times in my career. Please be good to yourself Peter. You will be in my prayers.
February 6, 2017
Friend
William Rongo
Wow Laura Levis Heaven must be a beterPlace. Why ? So hard for words cant phantom a loss as huge as this! Bless you! Such a woman so beautifully rare, should be still here.
Hurts
December 8, 2016
Thank you for sharing your letter. A lot of the healthcare personal goes unnoticed and unthanked after the passing of a loved one! I have no doubts they are thankful for you! My condolences to you,your family and friends
Angie Heimsoth (Cheyenne)
November 15, 2016
Sharon McCubbin
Hello xx I also read your letter and wanted to send you my thoughts and best wishes xx We are blessed in life when we have shared even a short time with those we truely love and respect xxx
November 13, 2016
Cindy Rota
Peter, I just read your touching letter about your beautiful wife. What a wonderful love story you were able to squeeze into the years you were together. I extend my most sincere condolences to you and Laura's family as you deal with her loss.
October 23, 2016
Alex Sap
What an extraordinary woman, man, and couple you two must have been. May her memory be a blessing always in your life that brings as much joy and love as it does grief right now. Many never share such a loving partnership and I'm grateful though her life was cut tragically short that it was so very rich in love.
October 18, 2016
Liz
Read your beautiful letter. Laura achieved the dream of many during her short time in this world. Love of a wonderful family, meaningful loving friendships, and deep love with a partner. RIP
October 18, 2016
Jason Johnson
Thanks for sharing your story through your letter!! Deepest sympathies to you and your families. God bless!
October 17, 2016
Kathleen
Dear Peter...Thank you so much for writing your letter...My condolences for your loss of your mate and love. As a nurse by history I thank you for all of us...it is not an everyday occurrence that we have been thanked for the care we render..it is not necessary, expected or required...we do it as our calling. When we are we really do appreciate it but may not always accept it very graciously because it is nature to feel it is normal in our day and job. I personally would like to thank you for a beautiful letter that brought back all the memories of my wonderful patients I had then joy of taking care of...thank you
October 17, 2016
Sam
Dear Peter,
Thank you for restoring my faith in humanity. Your tragic loss, and Laura's legacy, will move many to change the way they live. What a beautiful life you had together. I know that you probably feel that you can't go on right now, but you are an important person on this planet and have tons to give. We need you!
October 17, 2016
debra
Such a terrible loss of a vibrant beautiful woman with so much still to give, may her memory be a blessing for all those who loved her
October 17, 2016
Dear Peter,
Your agonizingly beautiful letter to the medical professionals who cared for your wife - and you - touched my heart in ways I can't adequately express. As a cancer survivor, I too have known the kindness and compassion from the doctors, nurses and all medical staff involved in my care in ways big and small that made my journey not only bearable, but in a strange way, joyful. I, too wrote a letter to thank them - and remembered (and still remember) their names to this day, 6 years later. Having lost my partner 8 months ago, I understand the profound sense of loss you must be feeling. Please know that you and your family (and sweet kitties) are in my heart and in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Barbara Hand
October 16, 2016
Carol Iamurri
Your powerful, agonizingly beautiful tribute to you wife, your families, the hospital staff took my breath away. Being a pregnant widow at age 21, I can say I know how you hurt. with all of my heart that you find healing and can look back at the beautiful memories you made with a smile....God bless Laura, you a and your family....
October 16, 2016
Brian Morse
Dear Peter,
I am a pediatrician in Chicago. My name is Brian Morse. I came across your letter in Doximity just now and cannot help but cry. I am sure that you and your wife shared a beautiful love and it is so tragic that she should have left this world so young and from a disease that is so common. I have known many patients with asthma, I and all the men in my family have it, and I always fear and respect it. It is a blessing that your lovely wife's heart will continue to beat inside another grateful person. I have one child in my office with a heart transplant and you and your wife bring life to people like her. If you have any advice that can help me treat my patients with asthma better, or want to contact me for any reason, feel free. I am so so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Brian Morse
October 13, 2016
IRMA BELTRAN
HELLO PETER
MY NAME IS IRMA BELTRAN, I LIVE IN TEXAS. I READ YOUR LETTER ABOUT YOUR BEAUTIFUL LOVE THAT YOUR SHARED WITH YOUR WIFE, THE WORDS IN THIS LETTER CAN REALLY SHOW HOW MUCH LOVE YOU BOTH HAD....MY CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, YOUR WIFE IS NOW AN BEAUTIFUL ANGEL THAT OUR LORD HAS TO HELP YOUR FAMILY AND OTHERS DOING HIS WORK.....
MAY OUR LORD PROTECT & CONSOLE YOUR IN YOUR TIME OF NEED "+" AMEN
October 13, 2016
Tim O'Brien
Dear Peter,
My deepest condolences on this heartbreaking loss. Just under a year ago, I experienced the loss of my wife of 19 years. While our circumstances are not identical, there is enough in common that your letter moved me to tears. Thank you for writing and sharing this. If you would ever like to connect up, please feel free to reach out to me.
October 13, 2016
Jacqueline Garcia
I am in nursing school right now and reading your letter just reminded me why I decide to do nursing. You have touch my heart with your story. I am so sorry for your lost. She will always be with you.
Thank you for sharing your story.
October 13, 2016
Julie
What a beautiful letter you wrote about your wife and caregivers and family. Bless you. Your beautiful wife is now your angel. Thank you for your respect for the caregivers!
October 13, 2016
Jackie McDowall
Your beautiful story and memory of Laura moved me to tears, the gratitude given to health care workers in all fields is truly amazing. I'm so glad that Laura received such wonderful care, respect and dignity, I can assure you, all would have cried with you, at home when they question science and all which makes them carer's, I have many times.
In Scotland we call Organ Donors Hero's because that is exactly what they are, to give the gift of life to another person when their own expires is the most selfless, altruistic, wonderful thing one can do.
My 26 year old daughter is waiting on her second kidney transplant after receiving her daddy's 4 years ago has failed, so everyday I go through the pain, knowing that we are waiting on a Hero, I feel selfish knowing that a wonderful human must die to give my daughter life. Reading your words about your brave, beautiful soulmate has made me realise, life goes on and by sharing your DNA with someone to give them a continued life should be celebrated not mourned.
I'm a nurse and sometimes wish I wasn't, the pain I see and feel can induce such empathy that I can barely speak, however I can't think of another job I would ever do.
I will look up to the stars each night and thank Laura for being a Hero.
I shall hold you both in the palm of my hand. ( Scotland)
October 12, 2016
Kanchana Fernando
Peter, I just read your beautiful letter. I too had an asthma attack at age 34. And it almost took my life. And I know the doctors and nurses and respiratory therapists and PTs and all the staff of the ICU were immeasurably comforting to my family and to me. They truly are heroes. My heart aches for you. Thank you for sharing your story
October 12, 2016
Donna
Peter, I know your wife from your beautiful, loving letter, and have cried for your loss. May the happy moments that filled the few years you spent together crowd out the few days of pain and bring you comfort in the near term and joy in the time to come. Love lasts forever.
October 12, 2016
Judy Martin
Prayers to you and your family. Laura is your angel looking down on you, your family, and friends. Such a beautiful story of your love and life for each other. Laura lives on in the life's she helped . Please know that your story will be inspiring to many people.
God bless you.
October 12, 2016
Adam G
Dear Peter,
I too read your heartbreaking words yesterday and was moved to tears. As a physician I have been involved in tragic cases such as your wife's and yours, and I was heartened to hear that the entire team you came into contact with in the hospital made this horrific event at least a little less painful for you. In cases such as this, when we can't change the ultimate outcome, that's all we can really do. And please know that we in the medical field do feel immense sadness when all of our science and technology cannot fix what's wrong. May you find peace in the memories you keep of Laura, and in the comfort of your family and friends.
October 12, 2016
Charlene Urwin
Thank you for sharing your story of love & loss. Such a young & vibrant life taken too soon, yet giving to others. It is a tribute to you both & to all those wonderful people who helped in big & small ways to make the final part of your journey together so loving & special. I am sorry for your loss & happy for the special moments & memories you will always have.
October 12, 2016
Anna-Marie
Hi Peter,
I wanted to let you know that your beautiful letter was shared across my Health System this morning as a powerful reminder to all of us who work in Healthcare about our ability to make a difference. I want to thank you.
October 12, 2016
T Banks
Thanks for your wonderful, humble honest words. There is no better way to experience a loss than the way you did. Death is ugly and not fair. But the ability her husband had in making her exist so beautiful will be remembered. I am glad you shared your story with the world . To be in such a vulnerable place and share all the more makes me cry with sincere thanks. As a nurse, mother, wife I am moved and my heart goes out to Laura and her family.
October 11, 2016
Philip S
Dear Peter,
I came across your letter this morning. It caused me to shed many tears over the day. I know we don't know each other, but I was deeply moved by how much love I could feel in your words. A very gutsy thing to do to lay your wounded soul for all to see. We all have to go through things like this at some point in our lives. For some it's just far too soon and so terribly unfair. Take solace from all the memories you have. Take time to grieve and don't be afraid of showing your emotions. The pain does lessen over time. Take care and immerse yourself in your friends and family. Philip
October 11, 2016
My heart and prayers go out to all of Laura's family. Peter, your love story is remarkable. Heard about your letter to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the hospital.
Your love for your wide and your gratitude to the staff shows an incredible human being. You and your wife have touched many lives. May you find comfort in the love, support, and caring shown by others
October 11, 2016
Amy Anderson
Peter, I'm so deeply sorry for the loss of your beautiful wife I cant imagine the pain you are feeling, I came across your letter today and it has touched me deeply as I'm a medical professional who primarily works in the ICU and I believe because of your words I will strive to do my job better. May God help you through this difficult time.
October 11, 2016
I didn't know Laura or her husband but stumbled upon an article about them online and it really touched my heart. I'm so very sorry of your loss and wishing you strength and light.
'May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields
and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand'
(traditional Irish blessing)
October 10, 2016
Beth Fogel
Deeply moved by reading your heartfelt and gracious letter. I hope each day becomes brighter and know you'll always have her in your heart. So sorry for your loss.
October 10, 2016
Margie
Bless you Peter, and family (including Cola, Puma and Evie). A bright spirit has left your presence, but she is always nearby. Grieve deeply yes...but not forever. She would want to see those she loves most, to once again have joyful hearts. Comfort one another with your cherished memories...until one day you will be able to speak of her with smiles and laughter, rather than only tears. That beautiful day is coming-when we will be reunited with those we love, to never be separated again. Hold on to this promise in your most heart-broken moments. I ask God to bless you, and shower you with comfort and peace. Margie
October 10, 2016
Jayne Kravis
Thank you for sharing your story thru the letter to Laura's care givers. I wept as I read it. What struck me most was that Laura lived a full life, and that the two of you shared a rare and deep love. I am praying that the Lord will comfort your heart.
October 10, 2016
Trish Luers
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss as I read your letter what a touching moment to share with the world . I understand whole heartily as I lost my 10 month old daughter to a brain tumor 29 yrs ago may you find Peace in knowing you made Laura's final days and hours special .
RIP Dear Child
October 10, 2016
T Pierce
I do not know you but I saw your story on the news tonight. The pain does not go away but over time it becomes more bearable and the love you and Laura had will never die or be forgotten. May God keep you
October 10, 2016
Rob L
To Peter,
Your incredible letter was my life as well at the Brighmam ICU in 2013. You see my beautiful soulmate fought Breast Cancer via last chance surgery provided by many incredible surgeons in tandem with the Nurses /Angels of the Brighmam ICU. For 29 days time stood still as my soulmate fought for her life. My heart and prayers go out to you and Laura as well as your families. May you take life slowly and be very kind to yourself. Perhaps some day we could meet at Sleat, Uig or the trail head at Old Man of Storr on Skye...
God Be with you,
Rob
October 10, 2016
John
Read the touching story and obituary. Bless you all, and thank you Peter for sharing those memories.
October 10, 2016
Thank you for the gift of Laura's organs. Thank you for sharing your love story, and for recognizing the healthcare givers. You have taught us many lessons. God bless you.
October 10, 2016
Becky Corbett
What a moving letter. My heart goes out to you and the rest of her family. I cried as I felt some of your pain, yet I don't know you. The pain never goes but We learn to cope and we learn to smile again. Sending hugs for you all. I'm so so sorry.
October 10, 2016
Nicole Lievrouw
So beautiful the way those words of the care team ,my soul is touched
October 10, 2016
Pascal De Ridder
Too young!! R.I.P. Laura! x
October 10, 2016
Rik Steeland
Magnificent, tender,remember, feat.
October 9, 2016
Pierre
Sad but touching story. Our deepest sympathy for this great loss.
October 9, 2016
Kate W
Condolences to you. You don't know me, but I read your letter to your wife's doctors. I'm so sorry. Your wife sounds like an amazing person. May she rest easy.
October 9, 2016
Laila
October 9, 2016
Susan Stafford
I am so glad that you, Laura, and her family had the wonderful comfort of so many loving caregivers in her final days and moments. Mourning her loss with you. May she rest in peace and may you find peace and solace also.
October 9, 2016
Rachael Martinez
I recently came across this gentleman's letter to his wife's care team. It brought me to tears.
Just over 2 years ago, my mother passed. It was a sudden illness, from a sickness that had been hiding within her for some time. There were so many ups and downs. 'She's a fighter, she'll be alright'. 'There's nothing else we can physically do to save her, she is going to die'. This event turned a strong 37 year old woman into a lost inconsolable little girl. I cried so much. I screamed at doctors, nurses, God. I questioned their competence, the cleanliness of her environment, you name it. Many days that I am ashamed to think back on.
But thru it all, her care team was there. Listening. Consoling. Working so hard to save her. Ignoring the snide remarks I was constantly muttering. Bringing blankets, adjusting furniture...
This gentleman's article, reminded me of how hard of a time it was, which i already remember all tii well, and still live with every single day. But it also reminded me that one day, when I am strong enough, and the hurt isn't so much a part of me.... I too owe a letter, much like the one he wrote.
Thank you for that.
God bless you Sir, your lovely late wife and her family, and every medical care provider who continue going into and doing the toughest jobs there are in the world.
R.Martinez
California, USA
October 9, 2016
R
My soul is touched beyond words of this bittersweet love story.
October 9, 2016
so amazing and loving. may we be reminded of those around us who can be gone in a second. May we keep positive in every aspect of life. Thank you for the beautiful story...
October 9, 2016
Karla Shafer
You don't know me, but your thoughts and prayers you left us will always be remembered how wonder she was to have you and her smiles I felt reading this. Your friends will help you through this, don't push them away just remember there hard to come by. I wish you the best and my prayers are with you and your family. I know how hard it is to lose someone you love.
October 9, 2016
Karen Hoekstra
Beautiful touching letter. So terribly sad for your loss. Sending love and light from the Netherlands, Europe
October 9, 2016
Hannah Narkon
With tears in my eyes I write this having just read the beautiful tribute written by Laura's husband Peter. While I never knew Laura, I am so deeply moved by the words that were written about her and it breaks my heart to imagine the heartache her husband, family and friends are feeling. Please except my deepest condolences for your loss and know that heaven has gained an angel who will always be watching over all of you from above. God bless.
October 9, 2016
Malissa L
It would be so understandable to let anger consume you, yet you penned a deeply moving tribute to your wife, marriage, family (human and fur), friends, colleagues and caregivers.
Thank you for reminding us that quality-of-life and end-of-life care needs to include the human touch.
May joyful memories fill your heart and replace the grief.
October 9, 2016
What a beautiful story of life. May it encourage everyone who reads it to share and cause us to reflect on how we can make the world a better place. Godspeed.
October 9, 2016
what inspirational words of true love for Laura may her soul rest in peace. I felt every single word and I am so sorry for your loss.
October 9, 2016
Isabel Rios
Heavenly Father. I thank you for putting those caring nurses, those caring physcians, those caring staff at aid for Peter and his wife. How amazing to see that even in the most tumultuous, heart wrenching and dire situations You always show us Your Love through others. This in fact was You at work, helping Peter, family and friends, even the cat, cope with the harsh realities of life. I pray You comfort and give the whole family peace that surpasses all understanding and only comes from You. Do what you do best Lord-heal the broken hearted and save those that are lost. I feel his pain as I lost my first born-still born and I know only You can make a way, when there seems to be none. Love in Christ and to all those who don't know You, who might know of You, and for those who personally know You, show Yourself to us all revealing Your Love through Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate price so we can Truly Know Our First Love-You God. I love you with all of my heart and those reading this. I trust You will be their Rock, their Fortress and High Tower in this time of need and always.
October 9, 2016
Gladys Dendooven
RIP Laura
October 9, 2016
Annemarie Wheeler
What a touching letter to Laura's caregivers!! I am so sorry for your loss. Some nurses are extra special. And it sounded like she had an awesome husband!! God bless you all!! Rest in Peace, Laura.
October 9, 2016
Karlie Bischoff
To Laura's beautiful family:
While I do not know any of you, know that I am praying and sending my deepest condolences to all of you. Laura seems to have been a beautiful soul. I read the letter her husband wrote to the team who cared for her in the hospital, and it touched my heart so much. I hope that you all know how much Laura has touched people all over the world.
God Bless
-Karlie
October 9, 2016
R D
I did not know Laura, but I read Peter's article in the New York Times and felt compelled to leave a message. I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful, intelligent, and vibrant daughter, wife, and friend. Peter, your letter was a deeply moving tribute that brought tears. It also reminds me of why I go to work every day: to care for patients and families during some of the most difficult days of of their lives. I often think of my patients when I am at home and Laura will surely be remembered by her tremendous healthcare team. Your graciousness during grief is incredible. May you find peace and comfort in time. Sending light and love your way.
October 8, 2016
Jay
To Peter DeMarco, Dr. & Mrs. Levis, & all other friends & family members, I offer my deepest condolences. Reading the brief story in the Times was a humbling & beautiful glimpse into Laura's life, tragic death, yet above all, it softened my heart... broke it in some ways, all for the better.
While I am a girl living on the opposite coast who knows not one of you personally, I felt compelled to write to let you know that even in death & beyond the lives saved by the donation of Laura's organs, she & Mr. DeMarco have now touched many more lives. It is because of her that I am inspired to love harder & enjoy the time I have left with those who will leave all too soon. Thank you. I've no doubt I will remember Laura's name for years to come.
October 8, 2016
Beth Lasseter
I just read your letter to her care team. What a beautiful gift to have surrounded Laura with so much love up the the very end. My heart breaks for you. God is near to the broken-hearted and His strong hand was there, I am sure, to take hers when you had to let go. Blessings and peace to you.
October 8, 2016
Marcia Ledwidge
Rest in peace Laura and may God comfort your entire love ones.
October 8, 2016
Raul O.
I am sure Heaven has to have her. A wonderful soul makes a wonderful angel.
Thank you for sharing and receive my condolences and prayers.
October 8, 2016
G C
Tears - a loving husband - I am sure she knew how much she was loved.
October 8, 2016
Kim Washington
I didn't know either of you, but your story touched my heart. She will always be there with you. Every breeze you feel it will be her. May God continue to Bless you.
October 8, 2016
Diana J
I am so sorry for your unimaginable loss.....your article brought me to tears... I will return to work and care for my patients with you in mind.....
October 8, 2016
RIP
October 7, 2016
Dr. Christine Nelson-Tuttle
Thank you for sharing your wonderful touching letter about Laura. I will be sharing it with 106 nursing students this week so they will begin to be aware of the meaning of caring for a patient and their family really means. Laura has touched so many lives ....
October 7, 2016
Michele
Wishing you peace. Thank you for sharing your experience and for extending kindness into the world. It is inspiring and means your wife's spirit will live on.
October 7, 2016
Kelsey J
Dear Peter, friends, and family of Laura,
She sounds like the most beautiful soul. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers during this unimaginably hard time. Sending love.
October 7, 2016
Kelly
I read the letter of thanks written to the hospital staff, and it was beautiful and tear invoking. It is clear that Laura was dearly loved. May the memories bring comfort.
October 7, 2016
Terri Halloran
God Bless all this beautiful Angel's family and friends...Her loss diminishes us all
October 7, 2016
Ron and Shelley Stewart
Never got to know you other than through the touching story placed on FB, but to your husband and family, we send our most heartfelt condolences. You obviously lived life to the full and gained joy from every minute. May you all be comforted by the love and memories you shared. Our deepest sympathy.
October 7, 2016
LaKisha Cundiff
Thank you Laura for your beautiful life...sending heart felt condolences to the husband, family amd friends of the late Laura Levis. May God continue to bless you♡
October 7, 2016
Laura Cox
A life well spent, however short it was. Thank you for sharing her with the rest of us, I don't know how you'll ever get through this - but with family and friends who were able to have her in their lives - well, they are your anchor. God bless you, and Laura.
October 7, 2016
Debbie Nida
Peter,
I sit here, not knowing any of you. But as I read your lovely letter to all the staff, etc, who cared for your wife, I can't stop crying. I myself, am an RN, working most of my 30+ career in the neonatal intensive care. I have done so many of the things for my patients/family that the staff did for you and your family.....and for me, thats all part of the job...caring for the family as well as the patient........but it really hit home how a small thing, like "pretending no one saw her precious cat", or just "fixing the recliner so it was that much closer to your wife" really means to the family. I think those things mean more, than any medical treatment could ever mean.....especially to a family with a critically ill or dying loved one. But the best part of your letter, was how you were able to spend that last hour with Laura.....I absolutely love how you wrote it, how you spent that hour....priceless. I hope you find solice one day with all your memories, and especially with the memory of that last hour. And I hope every single healthcare worker out there, reading your letter will learn something from it. The compassion and "ignoring some of the hard set rules" of the ICU that the staff showed was unbelievable...and amazing.....and we all, even the ones, like myself, who tend to be rule breakers and let things "slide" (again, like letting you bring her cat in.....that one still, as I type about it, makes me cry sad, and happy tears) can learn a lot from your letter.
Take care, and never ever forget those special moments you had in that last week with your wife.
October 7, 2016
I read your letter to the hospital staff and wept at my desk. Your words keep your beautiful wife alive forever. Thank you for showing gratitude and endless kindness. Sending you all of my positive energy.
October 7, 2016
grace spiritholder
It was a pleasure reading your letter to hospital staff, as a tear rolled down my face, the respect, the dignity, you and your family received is what death is all about. "God, saw her getting tired when a cure was not to be so, he closed his arms around her and whispered "come to me"...All my creators strength will see you through your darkest hours of healing
October 7, 2016
Donna Hubiss
Dear Peter - I only know of you and your lovely life after reading the letter you wrote to her caregivers. It is a beautiful tribute to your wife and all who helpd with her care. As I write this I am fighting back my tears, as I truly know the pain you are feeling. My sister died at the age of 33, and my mother, a nurse, was always very caring and considerate towards her patients and their families. It was a true blow to my mother when, no matter her efforts or the doctor's, she passed away. My prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family. Please know that your lovely life is watching over you and her family from a much better place.
October 7, 2016
Zurain Imam
Dear Peter and the parents of dear Laura! So sorry for your irreplaceable loss. May the departed sol of dear Laura find eternal peace in Heaven! Amen
October 7, 2016
Lee M. RN
I was deeply touched by the personal reflection of your experience. I am going to encourage my nursing students to read your story.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute to your wife and family. My deepest and sincerest condolences on your loss.
October 7, 2016
Angela Corathers
I was just made aware through hospital administration with an article.. I have suffered from Asthma my entire life. Your story not only touched my heart. As a respiratory therapist you ignited a fire under me to make sure people do know it can be life threatening. I use to carry an Epi pin. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. And I will be sharing her story.
October 7, 2016
Ann Holum
Sending you all love and prayers today and in the days to come. I was reminded of the time, 16 years ago, that I spent with my sister who was dying of breast cancer. The caregivers who supported us and her hospice workers carried us in ways that still inspire my gratitude. Hugs to you all.
October 7, 2016
Acquaintance
Debbie Diaz Vazquez
My condolences to all family and friends. I just came across the most beautiful letter on my newsfeed, a very fitting tribute to this woman whom I've never met. Peter, the love for your wife is evident through your writing, as is the pain and grief you are going through. Thank you for allowing us a glimpse of the great care & love you all received, the love you shared with your wife; but mostly, thank you for making me cry and hoping that in my final hours one day, I too, would be loved so much. May the Lord's light shine upon you all during this difficult time.
Debbie Diaz Vazquez, PHOENIX
October 7, 2016
lauren nowicki
A beautiful tribute to a beautiful lady.
October 7, 2016
Your letter will bring strength and honor not only to the hospital staff who cared for Laura but to others who care with compassion for patients and their families every day. You have a true gift for writing which brought me to tears. I am so sorry for your loss. Gail H (San Vito, Costa Rica)
October 7, 2016
Susan Walter
Dear Peter and all who knew and loved Laura, my husband and I live in upstate NY and only know of you via this NYTimes letter. Peter, as a caregiver for my mother, I know some of the deep gratitude which prompted your letter. I wept throughout reading it to my beloved husband, because it expresses so much, so aptly, so beautifully. When things are done well, as they certainly seem to have been in Cambridge at the hospital, it is indeed an expression of love.Too, it is a nearly inexpressible comfort. The agape kind of love, in action.. Love for humankind, generous, spiritual humanity at its best.
My husband and I have loved the places you mention, I wondered whether the photo of Peter and Laura was taken in the Quairing hiking area on Skye, a place of incomparable beauty and breadth.
May you all find some comfort in knowing the exquisite beauty of Laura's life. She lived it obviously, with passion. God Bless you all,
Susan and Frank Walter
Niskayuna N.Y. (Schenectady)
October 7, 2016
Sharon Spellman
To Pete, Georgia and Bill,
We learned of Laura's tragic passing through Pete's article in the NY Times. Pete...our son, Michael Olasov, met Laura at Poly Prep and they were quite the couple for several years, through her time at Emerson. I'll never forget Laura's senior prom (Michael was only a junior) when they joined all the other prom couples in the Poly Prep courtyard for formal introductions. We came to know Georgia and Bill over the years and hosted them for a few Passovers. When I had surgery to remove a sarcoma in my knee in 2002 Georgia and Bill took care of my whole family, watching over my husband and three sons while I was in the hospital. While we lost touch with the Levis family when Laura and Michael eventually broke up, Michael gave us periodic updates and we knew that Laura had found a lifelong love with Pete. We'll never forget Laura's beauty and the light, love and joy that she brought to our son's life for many years. I'm so glad that in Laura's foreshortened life she found a love with Pete that few of us ever know. We are thinking of you and sending all of our love. From Sharon Spellman and David Olasov
October 7, 2016
Cindy South
I read your touching article and her obituary. Although I do not know your family, I want you to know that my prayers are with each and everyone of her many friends and family. May God give you the comfort that you will need. Cindy South - Council Bluffs, Iowa
October 7, 2016
Brian R
I just read the letter and was so touched. My heart and condolences go out to the entire family.
October 7, 2016
MariaAnna Burgess
May the memories bring you peace ...
October 7, 2016
Acquaintance
Samantha Sergeant
So sorry for your loss
October 7, 2016
Jessica C RN
A beautifully written tribute, gives pause to reflect on patients and families I have dealt with. I would be honoured to be thanked in such a manner.
October 7, 2016
Marielle Kaifer
Deepest condolences for your loss.
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