RMH

It is not often that a student in Grade 7 aspires to accomplish a math challenge that has not been solved in seven years. Nor is it common to find a child who can spell pineoblastoma without hesitation. Alysha can do both. She is a vibrant 12-year-old who loves Justin Bieber, swimming and the recent Twilight craze.


The oldest of three children, Alysha talks about family and friends with a smile and warmth that makes your toes tingle. Giggling, she shares stories of her sisters Ryleigh and Kaitlyn and her two dogs Junior and Jake that she misses terribly. Do you wanna know my wish? she asks with a twinkle in her eye, I want to take my sisters and mom and dad to Disney World and swim with the dolphins.

Diagnosed in August of 2010 with a brain tumour, Alysha has endured three surgeries, radiation and is preparing for chemotherapy. She is a model of strength, courage, hope and heart and is an inspiration to anyone who has the fortunate opportunity to meet her. People who know her call her their "hero".

With no where to stay and without financial resources to spend on hotels, Angela and Evan, Alysha's parents stayed by their daughter's side in the hospital until they received a phone call saying there was a room at Ronald McDonald House Toronto. We feel safe here. It is cozy, fun and colourful, says Alysha.