Our Hope & Impact

 One of the best memories of my sister was when we visited her in California, we went to the Aquarium, Saw the Hollywood sign. held snakes, and went to the beach, i remember going to Bubba Gump's shrimp restaurant and having a fun dinner there. One year I remember when we went to see Kevin Hart when he came to Pittsburgh, we went to Burgatory then headed to the theater to watch him. I was not able to stay awake and missed a lot of the show. Alex kept nudging me to stay awake. I was not ready for a midnight show. Even if it was the smallest things we were able to make great memories and come back to talk about it later. Alex was an amazing sister even when we didn't get along or didn't talk to each other a lot i wouldn't have wanted anyone else as my sister! she will always be missed. I know she would have loved to be an Aunt to my son and have a relationship with him, but I know she's watching over and watching all of us everyday. 

--Marissa-- 

 Alexandra was more like a sister to me than a cousin. We grew up so close and she had such an impact on my life. Rather than try to pick my favorite memory of her I would rather share something she did for me that shaped how I will live and treat others for the rest of my life.  When she asked if she could come stay with me, Alex was in treatment doing everything she could to get better. Of course, there was hesitation, but ultimately there is nothing I would not have done to help her on her path to recovery.  The journey started with me visiting her at her facility and sitting in on some NA classes.  There was something about sharing that experience with her that opened a window of honesty we didn’t quite have before.  Her first weekend with me we went on a 12 mile walk and went kayaking on the river. We laughed, we cried, and it seemed like this was going to be easy.  I learned quickly after that it was going to be far from easy.  I couldn’t keep her busy and happy every moment of the day nor did she expect me to.  All she needed was for me to listen and be supportive of whatever her battle was that day. Something people don’t understand, is that it was a full-time job for her to do that for herself. Daily meetings, journaling etc. We had nightly talks which were much more emotional than I had expected. She had to spend so much time and energy talking and thinking about the thing she was trying not to do. Seems counterintuitive to those that don’t understand but was critical for her success. I wish this story had a happy ending but unfortunately no matter how hard we tried to make it work she relapsed and was not able to continue to stay with me. My immediate reaction was that I had failed her, but in time I learned that was not the case. While it was not a success, I am grateful for the experience, time, and closeness we developed. She taught me how important it is to be kind and understanding to all. People can have a huge smile on their face but be fighting a battle on the inside that no one understands. I learned so much from her about what addicts go through and while I can’t put my understanding into words, I am grateful that she showed me that. I am honored that she picked me and trusted me with such a vulnerable, important time in her life. I miss her every day but and am grateful for every moment we had good or bad because it made me a better person. I hope that through this foundation we will help others on their path. She would be so proud to know that she is helping others. 

--Amanda--

 Alex was a ray of sunshine who brightened up every room she walked into. She was the kindest, sweetest, most selfless soul I've ever met. She loved to laugh and her laugh was infectious. She constantly put others before herself and helped so many people along her journey. Alex loved her family and friends deeply and I think that is why we who loved her are left with a hole that can never be filled no matter how much time passes we just miss her more. This foundation is our tribute to her and I truly believe that our Angel Alex will guide us to help so many in their recovery journey. We love you always and forever.  -

--Brittany--

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