Kiefer's mother has found the strength to go on by helping others in her daughter's memory. Wednesday, Janice Kiefer sat down with ABC7's Cheryl Burton.
Janice Kiefer says her daughter had so many plans, so many dreams. She gets emotional when she thinks about what the world is missing out on because Lauren is gone. But she finds comfort that work done in her name is making a difference and changing lives.
"I miss her every day, especially this time of year," said Janice Kiefer.
Lauren Kiefer was beautiful, smart, and her family says -- most of all -- kind. She was 24, and her future was as bright as her smile, but on Christmas day, 2006, her life was cut short.
Police say she walked in on a burglar, a former classmate and neighbor, Robert Rejda.
As part of the healing process, Lauren's mom celebrates her daughter's life through helping others. Wednesday, Janice Kiefer donated a variety of books to the Lurie Children's Hospital. Some were favorites from Lauren's childhood.
"She loves children. She watches over children in heaven," said Janice Kiefer. "We like to give in her honor. She was such a giving person, compassionate. She has an effervescence I feel like by doing this her legacy lives on."
Janice Kiefer says Lauren's legacy also lives on in a book she wrote about experiences she has shared with her daughter since her passing. It's entitled Infinity: A Story of Infinite Love Between Mother and Daughter.
Kiefer co-authored the book with Debbie Obradovich. She aided in the murder investigation and has served as a spiritual advisor.
"We wanted to help other mothers and other parents who lost a child and share Lauren's message to spend more time with your family," said Janice Kiefer.
Kiefer also donated $1,000 to the hospital. She says she would hope the books would provide joy and a smile to the children during this special time of the year.
For more information on the foundation, and what the Kiefer family is doing, you go to www.rememberlaur.com
