Priscilla Presley, in her upcoming memoir Softly, as I Leave You: Life After Elvis, shares the devastating moment she made the heart-wrenching decision to take her daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, off life support. This exclusive excerpt from PEOPLE offers an intimate look into the Presley family’s grief and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss.
Lisa Marie Presley’s death in 2023 sent shockwaves through the world. As the only child of Elvis Presley, Lisa Marie carried a unique legacy, and her sudden passing left a void in the hearts of many. Priscilla’s memoir promises to delve into the complexities of their relationship, the challenges they faced, and the enduring love that bound them together.
This article explores Priscilla’s account of Lisa Marie’s final moments, the difficult choice she had to make, and the impact of Lisa Marie’s death on her family. It also touches on other personal struggles Priscilla has faced, including the loss of her grandson and her son’s battle with addiction, painting a portrait of a woman who has navigated immense personal challenges with strength and grace.
Lisa Marie Presley’s Final Moments
In her memoir, Priscilla recounts the day Lisa Marie was found unresponsive at home by her ex-husband, Danny Keough. The frantic call to Priscilla, the rush to the hospital, and the agonizing hours spent waiting for any sign of improvement are described with raw emotion.
Priscilla recalls walking into Lisa Marie’s hospital room and immediately sensing that her daughter was already gone. Despite being on a ventilator and having a heartbeat, Lisa Marie showed little brain activity. Riley Keough, Lisa Marie’s daughter, reportedly felt her mother’s spirit pass while still on her flight to the hospital.
‘I knew from the first moment I walked into Lisa’s hospital room that she was already gone,’
Priscilla writes.
‘She was hooked to a machine that was breathing for her, and she had a heartbeat. There was little brain activity. Her spirit, always so vital, wasn’t there.’
The family held onto hope, praying for a miracle, until the doctor delivered the devastating news that Lisa Marie was gone. Priscilla describes the disbelief and the overwhelming grief that consumed them all.
‘It was the second saddest day of my life, other than losing Elvis,’
Priscilla tells PEOPLE.
‘It took a long time to come to terms with the fact that Lisa was gone.’
The Decision to Take Her Off Life Support
Faced with the grim reality of Lisa Marie’s condition, Priscilla had to make an impossible choice. After two hours of waiting, Navarone, Priscilla’s son, voiced the question they were all thinking. How long until they knew if Lisa Marie was going to start breathing again? The doctor said it could be two minutes or two days. Navarone couldn’t take the anxiety any longer, and left the room.
The doctor asked Priscilla what she wanted him to do. They had restarted Lisa Marie’s heart, but there was no guarantee it would keep beating. Priscilla asked what kind of life Lisa Marie would have if they kept her on the machine. The doctor shook his head, indicating there would be no quality of life at all.
Priscilla reflects on her daughter’s vibrant spirit and the thought of her lying in a vegetative state. With a barely audible whisper, Priscilla made the agonizing decision:
‘Take her off the machine, Doctor.’
The machines were unhooked. Priscilla and Danny held Lisa Marie’s hands, stroking her face and telling her they loved her. As Priscilla moved to tell the others, Danny cried out, not wanting her to be left alone. Priscilla began to sob and doesn’t remember falling, but knows that Ivy caught her. After that, everything went dark.
Lisa Marie Presley’s Cause of Death
Lisa Marie Presley’s death was attributed to a small bowel obstruction that developed after bariatric surgery she had years prior. This condition underscores the potential long-term complications of such procedures and the importance of ongoing medical care.
The details surrounding Lisa Marie’s death highlight the need for awareness and understanding of the risks associated with bariatric surgery. While it can be a life-changing option for many, it’s crucial to be informed about potential complications and to maintain regular check-ups.
Lisa Marie’s passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Her legacy lives on through her children and her contributions to the world of music and entertainment.
Priscilla Presley’s Strength and Resilience
Priscilla Presley’s life has been marked by both extraordinary joy and profound sorrow. From her marriage to Elvis Presley to the loss of her daughter, she has faced numerous challenges with remarkable strength and resilience.
In addition to Lisa Marie’s death, Priscilla has also endured the loss of her grandson, Navarone, who died by suicide in 2020, and has supported her son through his struggles with drug addiction. Despite these hardships, she remains a source of inspiration and a testament to the power of the human spirit.
‘It hasn’t been easy at all,’
Priscilla says.
‘But you have to find strength.’
Priscilla finds solace in her family, including her son Navarone, who is now sober, and her granddaughter Riley Keough, as well as her two great-grandchildren. She says that knowing everyone is doing well makes her happy. This memoir is a testament to her journey, her love for her family, and her unwavering determination to navigate life’s challenges.
A Look at the New Memoir
Softly, as I Leave You: Life After Elvis promises to be a candid and deeply personal account of Priscilla Presley’s life. In the memoir, Priscilla goes deep into the turmoil she has faced in the years since Elvis’ death in 1977. The book explores her relationship with Elvis, her experiences as a mother, and the challenges she has faced in the years since Elvis’ passing.
Priscilla’s memoir is not only a story of loss and grief but also a celebration of love, family, and resilience. It offers a glimpse into the life of a woman who has lived through extraordinary circumstances and emerged stronger than ever.
The book will be published on September 23 and is available for preorder now wherever books are sold.
Conclusion
Priscilla Presley’s memoir offers a poignant and intimate look into her life, marked by both extraordinary joy and profound sorrow. The excerpt detailing her decision to take Lisa Marie Presley off life support is a testament to the difficult choices families face in times of crisis.
Through her story, Priscilla reminds us of the importance of cherishing our loved ones, finding strength in the face of adversity, and celebrating the enduring power of family. Softly, as I Leave You: Life After Elvis is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
As Priscilla continues to navigate life’s challenges, her resilience and grace serve as a beacon of hope for us all. Her willingness to share her story is a gift that will undoubtedly touch the hearts of many.
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