Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) Awareness Week: Remembering Alysha’s Journey with CHD
“EVERLASTING FRIENDSHIP”
Written by Sarah Beattie
I had the pleasure of meeting Alysha when I transferred to North Haven Elementary school in grade 2. Alysha had a spunky personality and we bonded instantly over our matching triple flip fuzzy hoodies. We shared a love of fashion and growing up shopping became one of our favorite things to do together. Unlike normal shopping trips, Alysha and I looked at it as more of a sport, spending hours at the mall and going into every single store. I can 100% say Alysha was the spark for my interest in fashion. She was consistently on top of the current trends and she’d always be my go-to for advice. I would call her or text her the night before school to plan our outfits to make sure they coordinated and we’d have designated skirt or dress days. Growing up Alysha and I would sneak into Kelsi’s room when she wasn’t home and do fashion shows with her clothes. Having an older brother I never had anyone to fight over clothes with. Alysha was hilarious when Kels borrowed something of hers to wear, there were definitely fights but Alysha had good taste and we were all just trying to keep up.
Alysha was wise beyond her years and had a one-liner for every situation. I cherish all of the time we spent together staying up all night at sleepovers giggling and taking silly photos. I have countless memories with Alysha and I just lying in bed, laughing so hard we would start crying over something so simple. I don’t think I told her enough but Alysha’s laugh was amazing and I smile each time I think of it. At beginning of grade 7, Alysha and I were starting at a new school. Knowing only a handful of people it was a big step and there’s no one I would have rather had by my side. Alysha and I were in a class with 5 girls and Alysha was not putting up with any funny business or teasing from the boys. We carpooled together every day. I’d run across the park and Jeannine and Alysha would pick me up. Alysha looked out for me when I was shy starting at a new school and even when I broke my leg later that year. Alysha had such a big heart and she was so generous to those close to her. Alysha knew exactly what I liked and was the only person who understood my love for Reese’s pieces peanut butter cups. She would always surprise me with them and I’ll never forget when she gave me the world's largest peanut butter cup, which lasted me 2 months. She was a truly remarkable friend and I’m so thankful for the time we shared.
One of the many things I admired about Alysha was the pride and passion she put into everything she did. Whether it was in playing tennis, working at the sports shop, or cheering on the riders. Alysha was so smart and I know she would have become a glamourous business woman running a company. Alysha took pride in all her athletic endeavors from tennis to volleyball, she was an amazing team player. In grade 9 our junior high made it to the city finals. Both our parents yelling and cheering us on from the sidelines. Although we lost the game it was such an amazing experience to share and I’ll never forget how much fun we had at practice or the excitement leading up to a game. Alysha had a determination like no other and nothing would slow her down. When she became sick we still managed to go on our adventures including going to chianti’s with Kelsi, or to get ice cream, or just chatting and braiding and brushing her hair. The Oliphant’s were a second family to me and Alysha was my best friend. She holds such a big place in my heart and I’ll cherish our memories forever.
Love always, Sarah
