After a long battle with brain cancer, 19-year-old basketball player Lauren Hill passed away early Friday morning. In her wake, Hill leaves behind an impressive legacy of activism and awareness, including a successful $1 million drive to raise funds for cancer research.
Hill's story touched many throughout the sports world for her bravery in facing her condition head-on. The former basketball star accomplished her dream of playing at the college level even as she battled her terminal condition -- she managed to suit up for one game with the school that had originally recruited her to play on the team.
Shortly after passing, Hill received a long, touching tribute from LeBron James over Twitter.
Dear Lauren Hill,
You are the true definition of strength, courage, power, leadership, etc etc! Your time spent on earth will never be...
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 10, 2015
forgotten. I have that I never got the chance to meet u in person but know you inspired me the whole time! For every life u touched, u...
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 10, 2015
made the biggest impact of them by just being YOU!! You're in a far better place now and please don't have to much fun up there w/o all...
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 10, 2015
your family and friends. Can u please tell my Grandma I said hello. Don't be afraid, she knows you cause we spoke about u plenty of times..
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 10, 2015
Until we officially meet again, take care and continue to be that LEADER we all love! #RIPLaurenHill
Sincerely,
LeBron James
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 10, 2015
Hill maintained that her goal was to help find a cure for cancer, even as she was aware she probably wouldn't live to see that day. Although she is gone, the body of work she left behind will certainly further the cause and help other future victims of cancer.
