Elsa Violet Landram (Rett Syndrome Warrior), 7, passed away on Monday, October 7th, 2024. She was born on May 22, 2017 at St. Joeseph Hospital in Joliet, IL.
She is survived by her family: Laura Landram (Mom) , William Landram (Father), Patricia Landram-Hermann (Grandmother) Andrew Kocanda (grandfather) Jeanette Kocanda (Great Grandmother) Ann Carter (Aunt) Paul Carter (Uncle) Katie Carter (Cousin) Mark Kocanda (Uncle) Savanah Badouskaus (Cousin) Madaline Badauskaus (Cousin) Kris Kolecke (Uncle)
Elsa, a child born to parents who were told they would never have a child, was nothing short of a miracle, the light of our world, and the strongest warrior ever known. She fought relentlessly to thrive throughout her journey with Rett Syndrome and did it with the brightest and most beautiful smile this world has ever known. A face of an angel, a heart of a lion, and a soul pristine from any flaw. A gift we never thought we would have had, taken too soon by unfair randomness.
In a world of Rett Syndrome, a war was waged, and Elsa was the front-line soldier. Her battles began early and never wavered. Yet, Elsa persevered with laughter, smiles, love, and the warmest hugs anyone could ever give. Even in her most difficult times, she would comfort us with a smile or a tiny hand holding our fingers tightly.
Even during our greatest scares, she always surpassed every trial. She showed no fear and gave this world love, even if she was in pain. She warmed our hearts through touch, sound, and childlike games she loved, most of which stemmed from her obsession with Bluey. However, not to be outdone, she also loved to watch sports, especially the Cubs and Bears. Now she can be with the one she called Gramp…Earl Cusick, who will be quick to remind her that you kick home runs in football and score touchdowns in baseball, where we are sure she will give her patented eye roll.
We know that even though we cannot see her, she will always be with us because she loves us just as we love her. We also go forward knowing that she is wrapping her wings around us, just as we wrapped our arms around her for the last 7 plus beautiful years. Even when things were their hardest, we could always count on her smile to change our moods.
Now, we can count on her Gift of Hope, as we eagerly await the knowledge that her little body will hopefully save the life of another, allowing us to know that in some way or form, she will still live on in this world as a hero. And even if not, in our hearts, she is our perfect little hero.
We thank all of her caregivers who assisted us through the years: April Learner, Lorene Boyd, Gail Walker, and Angel Zickefoose, her wonderful team of nurses. We also extend our deepest appreciation to her doctor core, who helped us manage all of her difficulties and helped keep her healthy as long as possible: Joanette Bellicina, Colleen Burfiend, Jennifer Burke, Trisha Sisnowskas,
Maria Garcia Pierce, and Maria Onigan. Not to be outdone, also her therapists Lydia Cadlic, Kushal Singavi, and all of the staff and teachers who touched her and our lives from United Cerebral Palsy, the wonderful school she attended.
If you wish to honor our daughter, then be just like the hero she was and help support the International Rett Syndrome Foundation in finding a cure as quickly as possible so that others can have the Gift of Hope, just as Elsa so selflessly gave. To donate or get involved, visit www.rettsyndrome.org
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL. Cremation will follow in accordance.
Visitation will be held from 8:30 am to 9:30 am at the funeral home with graveside services will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 10:00 am St. Joseph Cemetary, 1500 N. Raynor Ave, Joliet, IL.
Friday, October 18, 2024
4:00 - 8:00 pm (Central time)
Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life
Saturday, October 19, 2024
8:30 - 9:30 am (Central time)
Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life
The funeral procession will depart the funeral home at 9:30 am for a graveside service at 10:00 am.
Saturday, October 19, 2024
10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)
St Joseph Cemetery
Visits: 1060
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