Tayla Hancock continues to be a source of inspiration to many, particularly singer songwriter Katie O’Donnell who has released a single inspired by one of the late teenager’s poignant poems.
Camera IconTayla Hancock continues to be a source of inspiration to many, particularly singer songwriter Katie O’Donnell who has released a single inspired by one of the late teenager’s poignant poems. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Heartfelt words by Tayla inspire local songwriter

Lauren Pilat, Eastern ReporterEastern Reporter

In memory of Tayla, the 31-year-old singer/songwriter has released a song dedicated to the teenager, with industry professionals Suze DeMarchi and Nuno Bettencourt.

Inspired by a poem written by Tayla, On the Inside (Tayla’s Song ” Butterfly Edition) is a candid and poignant personal narrative exploring vulnerability and the fragility of life.

The lyrics speak of Tayla’s journey from helplessness to eventual acceptance, and feelings of hope that other people would not take life for granted.

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Ms O’Donnell said the song was beautiful and ‘heartbreakingly honest’.

‘I was privileged to be able to read a lot of Tayla’s poems and writing after she passed, and what struck me was that she really was your average teenager going through all of the usual teenage struggles and angst,’ she said.

‘But you can tell from her writing when she was diagnosed because her whole outlook on life began to change.

‘Her message became one of not taking life for granted, and appreciating everything you have now, rather than waiting until it’s too late.’

Ms O’Donnell said Tayla was ‘strong, gracious and had a wicked sense of humour’, a teenager who smiled ‘despite the fact she was in a lot of pain’.

‘All she wanted was to make a difference and be remembered ” she wanted people to not take their lives for granted,’ she said.

‘I thought it was really important to add this message into Tayla’s song, and hopefully keep her memory alive.’

Part proceeds from the sale of On the Inside (Tayla’s Song ” Butterfly Edition) will be donated to Variety with the single available on iTunes.