Pippa’s short, beautiful life has ended.
She passed peacefully this morning surrounded, cuddled and held by those who loved her the most and whom she loved the most – James, Patrick and Mummy – whilst listening to her relaxing reiki music.
On Wednesday she had her teacher aide come for school at home and focussed on maths. She then went to school and after that to the hydrotherapy swimming pool for an hour where she was determined to walk to the hydraulic chair and get out of the pool all by herself on her own – “you can take the stairs mummy,” she said. She did. She played puzzle games with a special friend who called in for a surprise visit before dinner.
On Thursday it was, cold, wet and windy. Pippa, played games, did school at home for an hour again and then we spent the rest of the day watching movies and eating Easter Eggs. Other than being tired with a bit of a sore throat and a runny nose she was very happy. She ate, drank and communicated clearly.
Her rapid decline started at 7pm Thursday evening. She has been cuddled, held, massaged and kissed like never before. She has been cared for around the clock by her wonderful medical staff who have, at the same time, cared for James, Patrick and me. She has listened to chapter after chapter of the Magical Far Away Tree. Early in the day when she was able to, she watched episodes of Modern Family with James, Patrick and me lying together in bed with her laughing. She has listened to music. She has looked at photos of her kindred friend getting ready for her deb ball. She has not been left alone for one minute. Friday was also earring day – the first day she could change her earrings after getting her ears pierced on her birthday. She wore her beautiful flower ear rings that look so pretty. She has them in again today after making sure we put her real gold “sleepers” in for sleeping last night.
We have been able to say goodbye beautifully.
The last thing Pippa did on Friday evening was to open her eyes for the last family visits including a return visit late at night from Tony. “My Tony” as she called him when she was little. She also used her eyes and her right hand to communicate a few instructions to her doctors, nurses and me before going back to sleep.
Pippa is now climbing the Faraway Tree exploring magical lands. She will be “Legs Eleven” forever. She was beautiful in life and as she lies in her bed now surrounded by and holding her favourite teddies she is still absolutely beautiful.
That beauty and spirit of hers will live on forever.
Pippa Rea 
I’m so sorry for you and your families loss I don’t know you or your family but have been touched by your blog and your precious pippa’s story! Fly free if any pain little sweetheart! RIP sweet angel
Pippa’s beauty will live on, her spirit will endure. She has been the epitome of strength as you, James and Patrick have. With much love and sadness, the Blackman family
Dear Virginia, Patrick & James. Thank you for taking us with you in Pippa’s journey, I wish every other person in this world could see what you have done, I’m humbled by you and admire you so much. Pippa you are incredible, sweet climbing forever darling girl. I feel shattered and empty. Meredith, Evie & Asher Shaw
Wishing you all peace and courage.
Dear Virginia, I am so very sorry that this chapter of Pipa story has come to pass. It is with the saddest heart that I send my condolences to you all. I will miss little Pipas sunshiny face and spirit. Her brightness and strong spirit will live on in our hearts for ever. God bless xo
Virginia, it is terribly sad and I also thank you for the inspiration you have given to so many. All our love to you and your family, Emma
We salute an extraordinary family. Giving all to the very end .. Pippa has given everyone that knew her such memories to cherish and keep. Our heart felt sympathy. Love Paula Darren Jaz and Charli
Pippa was a beautiful girl and always will be. She was my favourite cousin and I love her so much. Love Courtney xxx
Pippa was a beautiful girl and she always will be. She was my cousin and I loved her so much & I’ll miss her a lot. Love Courtney Rea xxx
Dear Virg, thinking of you and sending all our love and hugs to you, Patrick & James. Your beautiful Pippa is truly amazing and has been such an inspiration. All our love Jode, Butts & family xoxoxo
Deepest heart felt condolences. She was truly an inspiration, participating in life, as best she could. School Sports Day a true highlight of her determination and love from her awesome family. RIP Pippa the brightest star in the night! Sadly missed by all her classmates
RIP gorgeous Pippa.
Love and strength to your beautiful family.
Sebe, Jeff, Mags, Tors. xxxxoooo
To Virginia, James and Patrick, our love prayers and support are with you. Pippa, you were the strongest most amazing young girl. Your memory will live on forever.
To Pippa, thanks for being a good friend to me, I will miss seeing you at school, love from Nate McKenzie
I have just read the saddest yet most beautiful words written by an amazingly strong and loving person about a unique, extraordinary and beautiful little girl. The essence of Pippa will forever be remembered. Thank you for sharing Pippa’s journey with us all. We feel blessed and honoured. Our heart felt condolences to Virginia, James and Patrick. Take care of each other. Love Lorraine, Roger, Alex, Nick and Sammy Adams
Dear Virginia and family, We are so sorry for the loss of your gorgeous Pippa. Words cannot express how deeply saddened we are for you all. May you cherish the beautiful memories you have of Pippa and may she rest peacefully now in God’s care. Love to you all. Renee, Justin, Zack, Ryan and Ava Houlihan. xx
Beautiful, sweet little Pippa, When I think of you I can’t help but smile. You represent everything that is good in this world and your beauty will live on in the hearts and thoughts of everyone lucky enough to have known and loved you. Rest now sweet little one. Love you Ginny, Patrick, James and the rest of the family. Love Sue, Dave & family xxx
Dear Virginia, James and Patrick sending you all pur love and prayers on the loss of your beautiful daughter and sister. Cherish all your wonderful memories of your beautiful girl . Rip beautiful pippa xxxx Lara, Martin, Isaac and Ryan Fleming
Our thoughts are with you Virginia, Patrick and James. Virginia, you have been an inspiration and thankyou so very much for sharing this journey with us.. Hugs and kisses xx
Safe journey home Pippa. Rest a while then SOAR on your beautiful new wings. Sending love and condolences to all those you loved and had to leave behind. Thank you for sharing the journey Virginia. Barbara xox
Our heart aches for you all! Sorry just doesn’t cut it! This is just so unfair!!!. Pippa is, and will always be remembered for the amazingly strong beautiful girl who showed dignity, grace and strength beyond her years! A credit to such a beautiful loving family. All our love and thoughts to you all. 💖💖
Oh Pippa a brave courageous fight.
A new angel in heaven.
Rest in peace Pippa forever young.
Love from your special friend Sascha
Bryan Georgia& Will xxxx
My dear Virgina, all our love to you and those special boys. Pippa will always be in our hearts and thank you for sharing this incredible journey. God Bless, from Ray and Diane
Dear Virginia James and Patrick
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all now, RIP Pippa sending our love to you all
Karen mccombe and Chloe Brown Isabella Lewis and baby Halle xxx
“The best way to treat obstacles is to use them as stepping-stones. Laugh at them, tread on them, and let them lead you to something better.”
― Enid Blyton, Mr Galliano’s Circus
Let’s hope after all of your obstacles you have now reached the something better sweet girl.
Condolences to the most amazing family. My heart aches for you. Thankyou Virginia for allowing others a glimpse into your journey. I know I hug my kids tightly every time I read one of your blogs.
Goodbye to a truly bight star. I am privileged to have taught Pippa on her last day at school. She had humour right up til the end. On Wednesday, with the help of her amazing aide, Jeff, Pippa was doing her best ‘homie’ impersonation at school, it was very funny – very Pippa! Luke, Anna, Isaac, Jarrod and myself are all so saddened by the loss of Pippa from this life. To Virginia, Patrick, James, and all of the extended family, our hearts are aching for you. xxxx
Pippa is an angel and will be forever in our hearts. You are an extraordinary family and throughout this unexpected journey in your lives you – Virginia, James and Patrick – have demonstrated the true sense of the word ‘family’. Pippa’s life was short but she lived it to the full.
In honour of her, we listened to Taylor Swift, loud, on the trip back to Melbourne. Love forever Sue, Jess and Sophie xxx
I am holding you so very much in my arms dear Virginia. In a big, big cuddle. We will never forget your beautiful girl and her spirit. To you and your boys, our love always, Sam, Tom & Luke xxx
The saddest news, we were praying for a miracle. Thank you so much Virginia for sharing your journey with us, we have followed it every step of the way. It has been inspirational, sad and happy but most of all courageous. May your darling Pippa now rest in peace. Our sympathy goes out to you, James, Patrick, Tony and Ann.
Reg and Jean Halse
Dearest Virginia and boys
Just read the sadest news, words cannot say how sorry we were to learn of the passing of a most amazing, courageous and beautiful girl that we were very fortunate to have met and are sincerely sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace and our sympathy and love to you and the boys. You have been a good example to all and may you continue to be strong for the family.
I have never known someone to be so dedicated to her family.
God Bless and may she now be in a happy place, and free from all the pain she endured.
Regards,
Tony and Kathy Lochead
dear virginia you may not no me but i am in d4 this year and pippa was caring and and took care of our school.
RIP Pippa you beautiful girl. You will be missed. You were a great friend; always funny, positive, beautiful, happy, strong + heaps more. If only RIP meant ‘return if possible.’ I love you heaps Pippa and all of my support is with you; Virginia, James, Patrick and your relations. I remember in grade 2 when me and Pippa were doing reading groups; and we smashed a sharpener! We got in a heap of trouble and had to stay inside for some of recess to ‘think about our actions.’ Lots of love, Hugs and kisses, love Anna. xx (PS: give nibbles a big hug from me!)
Dear Virginia, James and Patrick,
My hearts breaks for you all. I will treasure my memories of Pippa. I am so glad I was teaching in th senior building on Wednesday & got to say hello. Pippa gave me a wave with her gorgeous yellow painted finger nails as you were leaving.
I’m so glad you got to have such a beautiful and peaceful good bye.
We are all here for you.
RIP Dear Pippa xoxo
Pippa was such a beautiful young lady. She had such a joyful spirit that touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed dearly. The care, love and courage you, James and Patrick have shown throughout this journey has been truly amazing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
It was with great sadness to read of the passing of Pippa, we have been following your journey here in the UK every step of the way, praying & hoping this day would not come for you all. What a truly inspirational, courageous & beautiful girl. Our prayers & thoughts are with you all at such a difficult time. Cherish the memories of an exceptionally brave & wonderful daughter, sister & friend.
The Kilby Family (Yorkshire) XXX
Dear Virginia, James and Patrick
I’m so sorry for your loss of Pippa. She was always friendly and caring around the school grounds. Pippa was a beautiful girl. I will miss Pippa a lot. My prayers go to you and your family.
xoxox R.I.P Pippa
Zoe Fleming
Pippa was an amazing girl and from how long i had know her she was so kind and caring. But i know for sure that i will never forget her or her bright and beautiful personality.
Dear Virginia, James & Patrick,
We are very sad to hear about Pippa. You were very lucky to have such an amazing little girl in your lives. You have been incredible in your strength, courage and love. We will cherish all of our wonderful memories of Pippa. We are sending so much love to you all and you are always in our thoughts. Love always from the Parker family. xxxx
Rest in peace little Piippa. God bless to you all. Thinking of you as you try to continue each day without your little munchkin. Such a hard struggle but such a blessing to have had her brightness for the last eleven years. Take care x
Dear darling Pippa. Now a beautiful angel. RIP. Love to Ginny, Patrick and James. What an amazing family. Love always Goldiexxxxx
Virginia sending love and kisses to you and your boys, Pippa was always so happy at the Frawley get togethers, what a brave little girl she was! Happy memories xxxxxxx
Pippa once told me to live a “wonderful life”. And I will. For her.
Ginny, you’ve shown me what bravery is. Patrick and James, you’ve reminded me that wisdom and strength can be found in the youngest of souls.
I love you all very much and am proud to be able to call you my family.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your precious girl…
Pippa’s light will shine forever. It was a pure joy and privilege to have known her and she will be in our hearts forever.
Dear Virginia, James and Patrick,
We are so very very sad to hear of your darling Pippa’s passing. Such a beautiful girl that we had the privilege to meet and spend such a short but very happy time together on the high seas.
Our love and thoughts are with you Virginia and your beautiful boys James and Patrick.
Love the Booth family xxxxx
Dear Virginia, James and Patrick,
Words can’t express our feelings at hearing of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Pippa rest in peace, as our youngest Jessica says, “Pippa is all better now and doesn’t have cancer in Heaven.”
Love Alison, Kelvin, Emily, James and Jessica Hovey. xxx
Oh Virginia, James and Patrick nothing I can write here seems enough, there are no words I can say to help you get through this. I feel very privileged to have been able to help out and be involved with your family, over the past few years. Getting to know Pippa and receive regular hugs from her at school was always a delight and one that I will definetly miss! She has left her footprint on my heart that I won’t let ever fade. Rest now ‘gorgeous girl’. xxx
Love, Cathy Duynhoven
Rest In Peace beautiful Pippa…thank you for sharing your courageous journey with us, it was such an honour…enjoy climbing the Far Away Tree and visiting all the magical lands above, how lucky they are to have such a beautiful and magical person visiting them! You will live on in our hearts forever Pippa Rea…to Virginia, Patrick, James and your family and friends, thank you for sharing your journey, there are no words except I am so sorry and my heart breaks for you all. Sending love, hugs and strength to you always. Pippa was so lucky to have so many people love her the way that you all have…I am sure she is dancing around up there in the clouds laughing and smiling and I am sure one day you will all be together again, until then her beauty and spirit will always be with you…Lots of Love Jackie xx [KP’s friend]
Pest In Peace Pippa, you were a great friend and you were so beautiful and strong and you always managed to keep a smile on your face. my heart goes out to Pippa’s family and her closest friends. lots of love the Laurie family xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
R.I.P Pippa you were such an amazing and kind girl you will always be in our hearts you were very strong and brave girl. Pippa you are still hear but you are out exploring the world you were such a beautiful girl you will never leave our hearts. everyone loves you. And even no you were in pain you still came into school with a big and beautiful smile on your face.
Lots of love the Laurie Familyxoxxoxoxoxoxxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
i remember saying hello to Pippa when she was near by and pippa probably had no i dear who i was.