Related story: A Lauren-shaped hole

Lauren Ludeman, 17, of Waterville, died Wednesday, Dec. 1 at 10:30 p.m., at Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee, circled by family and friends.

Outpouring of memories and condolences from community members on her Caring Bridge website, left in the guestbook in the months since her diagnosis, reveals a vibrant and much-loved teenager.

Scrolling back through pages upon pages — 34 of them — reveals just how many lives this young woman touched in her short time here.

A poem about grief, posted within hours of her passing.

A Halloween memory, posted just three weeks ago:

‘‘Just wanted to let you know that I never stop thinking about you. You’re my oldest friend, ever since the days of meeting each other halfway on our old dirt road for playdates and putting on outrageous makeup upstairs in your room at your old house. Remember this Halloween, driving around and spraying the boys with silly string? You’ve always been there for me, and I want you to know that you’re always in my heart, and you always will be. You’re an amazing friend and I love you so much. Always will. Never forget how loved you are, Lo.”

The guestbook holds more than 500 personal wishes of love, hope and strength for Lauren, many from well-known Waterville family names.

Some didn’t know Lauren personally, but wanted to pass on strength.

Others hadn’t spoken to her in years, but wrote about shared childhood joys and offered love and support in any way that could help.

Another post, left the day after Lauren’s funeral, sums up the way this community pulls together in times of need:

‘‘I hope you aren’t worrying about your dad and your brother. They are two of the strongest men I know, and they have this entire town watching out for them. Alex is like my little brother, and I promise to keep an eye out for him, make sure he doesn’t turn out to be as big a troublemaker as you 😉 I know how much you loved them, and I know they love you so much. You’ll always be here with us, living in the hearts of everyone who loves you.”

To leave your memories, visit caringbridge.org/visit/laurenludeman/guestbook.