Lisa Laryea’s journey of courage and hope moved hearts far and wide. At just 10 years old, she inspired many with her dream of becoming a paediatric oncologist to help children like herself battling cancer.

Tragically, Lisa’s fight ended at the Wits Donald Gordon Hospital in South Africa, where she passed away during a bone marrow transplant.

At her funeral service at the Lashibi Funeral Home, her mother, Georgia Golightly Thompson, read a heartfelt tribute, capturing the essence of Lisa's short but impactful life.

“I lived the past 10 years of my life with the most amazing child I could ever ask for. Thank you, Lisa, for making me a proud mother. Your stay on earth was short, but you gave me so many memories to hold onto. You touched so many lives; even in your death, you’re still touching lives because of the star you are,” she wrote.

Lisa’s selflessness and contentment stood out even in the face of hardship. Her mother recounted how, despite her young age, Lisa made life easier for those around her and was always appreciative of the little she had.

Lisa’s battle with leukemia drew attention when her family launched a desperate plea for help to fund her treatment.

After exhausting all their resources, philanthropist and businessman Ibrahim Mahama stepped in, covering the over $100,000 required for her bone marrow transplant.

His generosity gave Lisa a fighting chance and filled her family with hope.

Lisa inspired everyone who met and heard her story, including the medical teams in both Ghana and South Africa. Her story highlighted the urgent need for awareness and support for children battling cancer.

Even in her passing, Lisa’s legacy continues to shine. Her story has created awareness about childhood leukemia, inspiring others to support cancer care and treatment.

Her mother, in her tribute, said it best: "You’ll always be my sunshine. You’ll always be in my heart. Sleep well, my sunshine. I love you to the moon and back."

Lisa Laryea’s life was brief but her memory will continue to inspire others to dream big and extend kindness to those in need.

The funeral service was attended by Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, family, friends and well wishers.

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TRIBUTE BY MOTHER TO HER LATE DAUGHTER - MONALISA LARYEA

I lived the past 10 years of my life with the most amazing child I could ever ask for. Thank you, Lisa, for making me a proud mother. Thank you for coming into my world, and thank you for choosing me as your earthly mother. Thank you for all the sacrifices you made for me. As little as you were, you made life so easy for me.

You never gave me a reason to worry because you were always content with whatever I had to offer. Your selflessness made me love you even more. You’ll always be my sunshine. You’ll always be in my heart.

Your stay on earth was short, but you gave me so many memories to hold onto. They’ll remain with me forever. You touched so many lives; even in your death, you’re still touching lives because of the star you are. Your story has been heard all over the world and has created awareness for others. I know for a fact that this is what you wanted to do.

Sleep well, my sunshine.
I love you to the moon and back.