The world mourned the loss of Lisa Marie Presley in 2023, daughter of the legendary Elvis Presley and Priscilla Presley. Her sudden passing at the age of 54 sent shockwaves through the music and entertainment industries, leaving behind a legacy of music and a family grappling with immense grief.

Now, Priscilla Presley, Lisa Marie's mother, is sharing her poignant memories in a new memoir, "Softly, as I Leave You: Life After Elvis." This book promises an intimate look into Priscilla's life after Elvis, focusing significantly on the heart-wrenching experience of losing her daughter.

In an excerpt published by People ahead of the book's release, Priscilla recounts the devastating moments leading up to Lisa Marie's passing. She paints a vivid picture of the scene at the hospital, the emotional turmoil, and the agonizing decision she had to make.

Priscilla describes entering Lisa Marie's hospital room and immediately sensing that her daughter's vibrant spirit was gone. Lisa Marie was on life support, with minimal brain activity, a stark contrast to the energetic and passionate woman Priscilla knew.

The gravity of the situation became clear as doctors informed Priscilla that while they had managed to restart Lisa Marie's heart, there was no guarantee it would continue beating. Furthermore, they cautioned that even if she survived on life support, Lisa Marie would have no quality of life.

Faced with this unimaginable dilemma, Priscilla had to consider what was best for her daughter. She couldn't bear the thought of Lisa Marie, a woman known for her zest for life and rebellious spirit, existing in a vegetative state.

In a moment of profound sorrow, Priscilla made the agonizing decision to take Lisa Marie off life support. Her voice barely a whisper, she told the doctor, "Take her off the machine, Doctor."

As the medical staff began disconnecting Lisa Marie from the life-sustaining equipment, Priscilla turned to Danny Keough, Lisa Marie's ex-husband, and suggested they inform the rest of the family so they could say their goodbyes.

However, as Priscilla moved toward the door, Danny cried out in anguish, begging her not to leave Lisa Marie alone. The emotional weight of the moment was overwhelming, and Priscilla's memory of what followed becomes fragmented.

She recalls collapsing, overcome with grief. Her cousin, Ivy, caught her as she fell, but the rest of that period remains a blur, a dark and painful void in her memory that she admits she doesn't want to revisit.

Lisa Marie's cause of death was later revealed to be a bowel obstruction, a complication that developed after she underwent bariatric surgery. This added another layer of tragedy to the already heartbreaking situation.

Lisa Marie Presley's life, though marked by both privilege and personal struggles, was filled with passion and a deep connection to her family. She left behind four children: Riley Keough, Benjamin Keough (who tragically passed away in 2020), and twins Finley and Harper Lockwood.

Upon the announcement of Lisa Marie's death, Priscilla released a statement expressing her profound grief and describing Lisa Marie as "the most passionate strong and loving woman I have ever known." She requested privacy as the family navigated this devastating loss.

The bond between Priscilla and Lisa Marie was evident throughout their lives. They were often seen together at events, sharing a close relationship that transcended the complexities of their unique family history.

Priscilla's marriage to Elvis Presley in 1967 catapulted her into the spotlight, and she has since remained a prominent figure in popular culture. Her life has been intertwined with the legacy of Elvis, and she has worked to preserve his memory and music for future generations.

Now, at the age of 80, Priscilla is bravely sharing her personal story, including the most difficult chapter of her life: the loss of her daughter. "Softly, as I Leave You" promises to be a deeply moving and honest account of grief, resilience, and the enduring power of family.

The decision to remove someone from life support is an incredibly difficult one, fraught with emotional and ethical considerations. It often involves a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals, ethicists, and family members who carefully weigh the potential outcomes and the patient's wishes, if known.

In situations where the patient's wishes are unclear, the decision-making process often falls to family members or legal guardians, who must act in the patient's best interests. This requires careful consideration of the patient's values, beliefs, and quality of life.

The experience of losing a child is widely considered one of the most devastating events a parent can endure. The grief can be overwhelming and long-lasting, often requiring professional support and a strong network of family and friends.

Priscilla Presley's willingness to share her story is a testament to her strength and courage. By opening up about her experience, she is helping to break the silence surrounding grief and loss and providing comfort and support to others who have experienced similar tragedies.

"Softly, as I Leave You" is not just a memoir about loss; it is also a celebration of Lisa Marie's life and a tribute to the enduring bond between a mother and daughter. It is a story of love, resilience, and the power of family to heal even the deepest wounds.

The book is sure to resonate with readers who have experienced loss, as well as those who are interested in the lives of Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley. It offers a rare glimpse into the private world of a famous family and a poignant reflection on the complexities of grief and the enduring power of love.