Notes Left Behind
by Brooke and Keith Desserich
List Price: $14.99
Pages: 272
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780061886409
Publisher: Harper Paperbacks
In Notes Left Behind parents Brooke and Keith Desserich share their harrowing story of love and loss. When their young daughter, Elena, is diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer, she is given only 135 days to live. Throughout her treatments and the ups and downs of her battle, the Desserichs keep a journal of their private thoughts and feelings. This journal, which was originally meant just for the family, especially Elena's younger sister, has become a tribute to their extraordinary daughter. Elena, who lived past her original diagnosis but was ultimately unable to defeat the cancer, demonstrated incredible courage, strength and love. She is an inspiration to us all, and her story reminds us to cherish each and every moment.
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1. Keith describes Elena as his hero. What specific qualities make Elena a hero? How would you define heroism? Do we have to suffer great trials to become heroes? Who are the heroes in your life?
2. Elena’s illness teaches the Desserichs to savor every minute with their loved ones, and to live in the present. Do we need to experience a crisis to learn to appreciate what we have, or is it possible to live this way all the time? What gets in the way of living like this? How can you bring the Desserichs’ lessons into your life?
3. “You don’t give up hope,” Keith says. “You just lie.” Throughout the days of Elena’s illness, the Desserichs strive to remain hopeful in the face of extraordinary fear and pain. Is it better to be hopeful or realistic? Is it possible to be both at once? At what point (if any) does hope become futile? Do you think you would manage to stay hopeful in the Desserichs’ situation?
4. Although this book is about Elena, it was written for Gracie. How does Gracie cope with her sister’s illness and death? What can we learn from Gracie about caring for loved ones? How do you think Gracie will feel years from now when she reads this book?
5. From time to time, the Desserichs wonder whether they have done something to deserve the suffering they are experiencing. Can we explain why bad things happen to good people? Do you believe that everything happens for a reason?
6. If you were told you had 135 days to live, how would you spend your remaining time? Elena creates a wish list. What would be on your wish list?
7. Elena leaves behind notes of love for her family. Are there any items or objects that others have left behind for you or that remind you of your connection to them? What do you hope to leave behind for those you love?
8. Keith explains how medicine only goes so far to help Elena. What other remedies does she receive? How do these offer her relief? During a stressful or challenging time, what untraditional methods do you turn to?
9. A portion of the proceeds of this book will go to The Cure Starts Now, a foundation started in Elena’s memory to help other children battling cancer. Elena’s story has inspired so many to become a part of this movement. How can you help to be a part of the cure? Brainstorm ideas.
10. Keith takes the reader into his private family moments –-- bedtime stories, tickle time, and words of love whispered every evening to his girls. What family rituals do you practice? How do these rituals enhance the family bond?
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"Elena has left behind a story of resilience, hope and most of all, love. We can’t help but take her into our hearts, and carry the best of her into our own lives."
— Jeffrey Zaslow, coauthor of The Last Lecture
