Remembering Leslie

Only yesterday I heard the news of the passing of a dear friend and customer, Leslie Petrone. I cancelled last nights plans, let the faucet from my eyes run on full blast, and spent the evening watching this video for what seems like the 100th time. I guess it was my way of celebrating Leslie and remembering all the beautiful things that she represented. When I think of Leslie I think of love, light, beauty, amazing inspiration and courage, and determination- all bundled up in the perfect little package. 

I don't recall exactly when Leslie and I first met, but it was love at first sight. We were instant friends. A few years ago I got a call from a friend of hers telling the story of Leslie having a hard time breathing and that she and her family had written "believe" on tee shirts with a sharpie, refusing to take them off until leslie was able to breathe again. Leslie suffered from cystic fibrosis. But, suffered? More like lived through, became a spokesperson and icon for, and changed the lives of many in her path.

I was honored enough to print the first believe tee shirts for Leslie, putting her initials on the sleeve: L. P. H. and I instantly thought to put the symbols that also represented her, love, peace, happiness. For all that she endured, she always represented these things. She embodied life to its fullest and spread love wherever she went. She was like a rock star, no matter where I saw her, she was surrounded by so many who loved her, and she will surely be missed by all.

I know here at our little luv shack she made a huge difference in our lives and we will cherish those memories.

Comments

[Suzanne]

Awww. What a courageous, determined woman. I wish I had known her. So sorry for your loss.

[Jill Koutroubis]

That was beautiful...So sorry...

[Patty O]

I had no idea the story behind the Believe (my favorite) shirt - thanks for sharing that and I'm so sorry for your loss.

[Dora Bocater]

I'm so sad ! She was and is amazing person Very strong and funny !
Lots of blessings for the loved ones behind

Aloha Lesli,
Dora

[Anna young]

thank you for sharing this... beautifully spoken. This touched me and I am so sorry for your loss.

Love and blessings,

Anna

[Danielle]

Kamie you are an incredible woman and thank you for sharing this. I also was honored to have spent a short time with her. Beautiful. I also love my believe shirt. So much love and light around you and all that you love. xx

[kamie]

thanks for all your beautiful comments.....we are all so blessed to be surrounded my so many amazing women! xoxo