Leilea was always so kind to me. I didn’t have the privilege of getting to know her super well but she always had a kind smile to give and never seemed bothered by my awkwardly social, shy, high school self. I’ve prayed for her and for your family, Kiel since I first heard of her diagnosis and will continue praying for you all in the days and years to come. 

Your family are in our thoughts and prayers. What a beautiful family. We are so sorry for your loss. The Wyatt’s - 

Kiel, I love you. It is hard to really grasp that the day we have been dreading and praying for a miracle to avoid, has arrived for Leilea. I am saddened to hear the news for so many reasons. Life isn’t supposed to go this way. Leilea’s battle and journey with cancer these past six years has been a great reminder for me to focus on what is truly important, but in some way it seemed like we always had more time. Life is way too short, especially for Leilea.m, but she made a huge positive impact in that time. For me, whenever I had a challenge or a rough day, I would think of You and Leilea  and your family, and realize what I am dealing with is very small and usually totally unimportant in comparison. You and Leilea and your walk inspire and motivate me to be a better man, husband, and father, and to try to make the most of each day. I am so sorry that Leilea is now no longer with us and especially for You and your family Kiel. but just as her impact and love will love on with you and your kids and family, it will with us too. Take luck!   

You were such a bright light to so many.  We are sad you are gone but We are immensely grateful to have been part of your life. Your memories will live on through all who you were so precious to.  We love you and miss you.

Leilea was an amazing person who was full of so much light, that it made you want to be around her. I always appreciated that anytime I was around her, she left me feeling better than before we talked. She was naturally cool, and made conversation easy…  and usually had a sincere compliment to give. She was a genuine cheerleader for others and truly one of the most vibrant people I’ve ever been around. 

We are so sorry for your family’s loss. 

I'll never forget my first best friend. You were with me at preschool graduation, my wedding day, and first baby shower.  We spent birthdays, Halloweens, and Christmas together. We shared youth group trips, concerts, lake days and fourth of Julys, our love of Precious Moments, Sanrio, New Kids on the Block, Disney Channel, and music. There are so many good memories. May you rest in the arms of Jesus, free from pain, Leilea. 

Kouchekis and family, I am praying for you as you grieve. I am so sorry for this loss in your family. May God hold you close and may the memories burn bright.

My Friend Leilea

Oh, beloved friend, so precious

loved because you’re loving

full of joy and full of spirit

heart afraid of nothing!

You lived days that beat regret

but without you we are sighing.

You shone with the light of home and heaven

and though our hearts are crying,

you’ve shown us how to live each day alive

despite our dying.

Beloved mother and wife, so gracious

always the includer!

You stood against bullies to defend the meek

but then befriended the intruders!

You said the words of love

that we weren’t brave enough for saying.

Thus my memories of you are music

full of jokes and games and praying

and with laughter that would fill the room

because you led the way in playing.

We suffer and we get dismayed

we languish and we feel afraid

but you have shown us all the way

to go beyond just trying.

That there is beauty yet to see

and be that is undying.

You shone with the grace and peace of Christ

and like a hero, death defying,

you’ve shown us how to spread our 

wings and train ourselves for flying. 

Really wish we were closer so we could wrap you and the kids in our arms. We are so sorry for your loss. We will all miss that incredible woman. Love you all ❤️