My Best Friend
By: Luke G.

With her talents, love of life, caring personality, and beauty, both inside and outside, Alicia has truly inspired many people. Since you've already read the story of her struggle with cancer from her point of view, one of her best friends would like to share his story of how Alicia has changed his life for the better and given him the best gifts in the world, love and friendship. I hope that after reading through this website and this really sweet and loving story, you, also, can be inspired by this fourteen year old whose spirit will always live in our hearts.

Alicia O'Brien is my best friend. I first met her in fourth grade. I noticed how high-spirited she was and how she was always making people laugh. I didn't become good friends with her until later. We had a lot of great times together in fourth grade. But in fifth grade, we were in different classes and I didnt see her much.

But when I learned of her serious illness, I immediately sent her a get well card. I felt so bad. I knew how serious this was because my mom had recently lost her closest friend to cancer. I sent her cards, presents, and did all that I could to help her. We quickly became good friends. We were always there for each other. She introduced me to many important people in her life. We all quickly became good friends. I always would count on Alicia for support.

When we would all go out together, Alicia would bring us presents, presents money couldnt buy, presents that were more precious to me than from any other person. She would write us poems; poems that were from the heart; poems about love, faith, hope, courage, friendship, and peace.

Through all this, Alicia was battling cancer. She managed to stay strong and always look on the positive side of things. She was in remission for a year when we found out the latest news: Her tumor had spread down her spine. We were told she didn't have long to live. I was devastated. But Alicia was the one who helped me through it. This was happening to her and she was helping me through it. I couldnt believe it. I couldnt believe that I was losing my best friend.

Alicia always taught me to look on the bright side of things. She taught me to be strong and brave no matter what happens. She has more faith than anyone I know. She is so brave and courageous. She trys to live a normal life. She works just as hard as anyone else even though she is battling cancer.

Alicia is my inspiration. No matter what happens to her, she will always live inside my heart. Her will to survive made me realize how lucky I really am.