Esther Earl (1994–2010)

My sister died when I was a sophomore in high school. She was only a few years older than me and her battle with cancer took up much of her young life. Her loss left a hole in the hearts of my brothers and sisters that we still feel to this day. She was the bravest person I know and I truly believe that every ounce of bravery and compassion I have in my body I learned from her. I miss her terribly.

I was afraid to read this book. I read the introduction by John Green and started crying. 30 years after my sisters death it was still hard to think about it. I put the book down. Tonight I decided to read it and I am glad I did. Esther's words were powerful. Her bravery was astounding. Her words and story made me love and cherish my sister even more. I am not going to pretend like this book will cause some sort of epiphany. I also don't believe the loss of Esther or my sister or any of the people we have all lost in our lives will suddenly have meaning. Will suddenly be transformed into a happy ending. Nothing will replace the lost years. What the book did do was give me a chance to remember my sister's courage. My sister's love. This was a book worth reading. I thank Esther and her family for letting me share it.… (more)