Stories About Tessa
Love, All Your Friends
By Cecile & Athena - Friends of Tessa
Tessa: You were the ideal friend and someone we could turn to when our spirits needed lifting. You graced the world with your beauty not only on the outside, but especially on the inside. Tessa, so many qualities made you a true friend and inspiration to me and countless others. You had such a huge capacity for love and that love you gave touched each person in different ways. They say that “people will walk in and out of your lives, but only true friends leave footprints on your heart.” You were kind, caring and generous to others. I don’t remember you ever saying anything bad about anyone and I admired you for that.
Friendship meant the world to you. You were always up for any adventure. Like the time one of our pranks went awry and the neighbours called the cops. You were ready to make a run for it….oh wait you chickened out and never left the car. You were content to take pictures of our misdemeanor from the safety of the car. All friendships have their up’s and down’s but you were always the one who would find a way to bring us back together. We have so many wonderful memories: even something as simple as baking, and the time we had a flour fight in the kitchen…Sorry about that Wendy! Tessa’s strength and determination was shown here even at an early age. I remember playing in a softball tournament and despite having two massive goose eggs above her eye brows, she was relentless in her desire to play even though the helmet wouldn’t fit her.
Aside from making us laugh you were always there when we needed you and you always helped us, even when you were busy. Your laugh was contagious and half the time we would all end up laughing at your laugh. Of all the years we’ve known you, Tessa, you could always put a smile on our faces. The power of your smile would light up any room, brighten our day and we will treasure this memory forever.
There is another thing I am thankful for, Tessa. You showed me what love looks like, that it is not something you only see in the movies, but something real. What you and Tyler shared was something truly special. You were an amazing girlfriend, I know, because Tyler always said you were. Your positive energy, and sarcastic nature brought so much laughter to your relationship. When you two were together, you were yourselves, and that is special. That was one of the qualities Tyler and all of us loved most about you Tessa, you were always true to yourself. Tessa, you taught Tyler and many others to fight for what they believe in and encouraged us all to follow our hearts.
Tessa, we will always miss you and there will always be a piece of our heart missing, but we will remember you like you were, and those memories will help us through the dark times. I recently discovered a message you left for me on the back of my bedroom door. It was a simple message but it was your way of saying Hi, and that you’re watching over us. Every time I look at the stars I’ll remember you, and I will think of the saying:
“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our loved ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
You inspired us to be better people Tessa and as we always say, “Ohana means family and family means no one gets left behind.” Your memory will live on forever in our hearts and we pray that one day, we too can join you with the angels and sing out in love for eternity (and hopefully God will have taught you how to sing by then!).
Love,
All your friends...
Tessa: You were the ideal friend and someone we could turn to when our spirits needed lifting. You graced the world with your beauty not only on the outside, but especially on the inside. Tessa, so many qualities made you a true friend and inspiration to me and countless others. You had such a huge capacity for love and that love you gave touched each person in different ways. They say that “people will walk in and out of your lives, but only true friends leave footprints on your heart.” You were kind, caring and generous to others. I don’t remember you ever saying anything bad about anyone and I admired you for that.
Friendship meant the world to you. You were always up for any adventure. Like the time one of our pranks went awry and the neighbours called the cops. You were ready to make a run for it….oh wait you chickened out and never left the car. You were content to take pictures of our misdemeanor from the safety of the car. All friendships have their up’s and down’s but you were always the one who would find a way to bring us back together. We have so many wonderful memories: even something as simple as baking, and the time we had a flour fight in the kitchen…Sorry about that Wendy! Tessa’s strength and determination was shown here even at an early age. I remember playing in a softball tournament and despite having two massive goose eggs above her eye brows, she was relentless in her desire to play even though the helmet wouldn’t fit her.
Aside from making us laugh you were always there when we needed you and you always helped us, even when you were busy. Your laugh was contagious and half the time we would all end up laughing at your laugh. Of all the years we’ve known you, Tessa, you could always put a smile on our faces. The power of your smile would light up any room, brighten our day and we will treasure this memory forever.
There is another thing I am thankful for, Tessa. You showed me what love looks like, that it is not something you only see in the movies, but something real. What you and Tyler shared was something truly special. You were an amazing girlfriend, I know, because Tyler always said you were. Your positive energy, and sarcastic nature brought so much laughter to your relationship. When you two were together, you were yourselves, and that is special. That was one of the qualities Tyler and all of us loved most about you Tessa, you were always true to yourself. Tessa, you taught Tyler and many others to fight for what they believe in and encouraged us all to follow our hearts.
Tessa, we will always miss you and there will always be a piece of our heart missing, but we will remember you like you were, and those memories will help us through the dark times. I recently discovered a message you left for me on the back of my bedroom door. It was a simple message but it was your way of saying Hi, and that you’re watching over us. Every time I look at the stars I’ll remember you, and I will think of the saying:
“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our loved ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
You inspired us to be better people Tessa and as we always say, “Ohana means family and family means no one gets left behind.” Your memory will live on forever in our hearts and we pray that one day, we too can join you with the angels and sing out in love for eternity (and hopefully God will have taught you how to sing by then!).
Love,
All your friends...
Burn Camp Memories
By Carla, Jenny & Hayley - Firefighters Burn Camp
CARLA:
Hello friends and family of Tessa Beauchamp. As many of you know, Tessa spent time every summer at a place called Burn Camp. We are three of the many people that are fortunate enough to have been a part of her life, and call her ours for that one week each year. Burn Camp is so much more than just a camp for burn survivors. It is a safe haven, a second family, and the blessing that brought Tessa into our lives.
JENNY:
We all met when Tessa was just six years old. With her bright eyes and adorable dimples, she was always the pretty one. Hayley and I on the other hand… We were such tomboys and always so envious of her. With each year, Tessa became more beautiful. Not only because of her looks, but because of her spirit. Even at six, her selflessness and ability to love was far beyond what you’d expect of someone of that age. She truly had an old soul.
HAYLEY:
The four of us were attached at the hip for 24 hours a day for those 6 days once a year. Burn Camp has a few traditions; one being “skit night”. Each cabin had an opportunity to present some sort of performance for the whole camp. One year, our cabin did a rendition of Moulin Rouge. When we sat around and planned out who was going to be each of the girls in the song. I was Christina Aguilera, Jenny was Lil’ Kim, and Tessa agreed to be Mya: the first voice. Although she was one of the quieter and somewhat shy girls in our cabin, she came out wearing this scandelous crop top, and when the time came, just strutted her stuff in front of everybody.
CARLA:
I will never forget that performance. I couldn’t take my eyes off her! I kept thinking “Who is this DIVA and what did she do with my little Tessa!”
I had the privilege of being Tessa’s camp counsellor, and in the earlier years of having a sort of mother/daughter, mom away from home relationship with her. I got to be the fun mom with no rules. I remember one year on the last day of camp when Steve and Wendy were there to pick her up, I overheard Tessa say to them “Guess what, I only brushed my teeth once this week!!” I quickly tried to change the subject before she could tell them that she had had even less baths. As our camp sweetheart grew into a young woman I was proud to call her my friend.
JENNY:
It was always heartbreaking when those 6 days were over each summer. Hayley and I were a little boy crazy (WERE) so we used to take the slightly reluctant Tessa and run around on the last day with my disposable camera, snap pictures of the cute boys and then take off. I was reminded of this because when I was looking through photos, all the ones of boys were kind of awkward and indirect angles. It’s funny because after all those years, it was Tessa who found true love. It doesn’t surprise me though, because I mean, what’s not to love.
HAYLEY:
I was fortunate enough to be able to spend time with Tessa outside of camp as well. Every so often we would meet up for sleepovers at Carla’s, where we would stay up all night and giggle about typical teenage things like boys, school, life in Surrey or Squamish, camp, family, and so on. I remember one time Carla and Tessa dragged me to one of the Twilight movies, against my will of course. I remember laughing through the whole movie and every five minutes Tessa would punch me in the arm and give me a stern “be quiet Hayley!” look. But after some time, all three of us were laughing hysterically and we were able to poke fun at the ridiculous acting together.
JENNY:
Tessa, the cancer may have taken you, but it can and will never erase the mark you left on our hearts. I feel inspired by the legacy you’ve left behind, by your strength, and by your beauty. I watched you grow from a young child of six years old to an amazing woman of eighteen, and I will always cherish the moments we spent together. You are family to me and I love you and miss you. You will forever be carried on in our memories.
HAYLEY:
Girl, you have got to be one of the bravest and most inspirational warriors I have ever had the honor of calling my friend. Though you will be greatly missed, the positive memories you have created with these people are endless. To all the family, friends, and admirers of this beautiful woman, remember the good times, because those are the only ones that matter in the end. I will love and carry Tessa until the life leaves my own body. Rest in peace my angel. We love you.
CARLA:
Tessa, you will be forever missed and never forgotten. At 6 years old you taught me the definition of selflessness. I am so proud of you for fighting until the very end. You made me a better person and although you have left us way too early, I am happy that you are no longer in pain. I know I speak for everyone from burn camp when I say we are so thankful that Tessa was brought into our lives. She lived with integrity and loved with all her heart.
So Tessa: from all of us at Burn Camp, we want to say “we’re proud of you kid”.
Thank You.
CARLA:
Hello friends and family of Tessa Beauchamp. As many of you know, Tessa spent time every summer at a place called Burn Camp. We are three of the many people that are fortunate enough to have been a part of her life, and call her ours for that one week each year. Burn Camp is so much more than just a camp for burn survivors. It is a safe haven, a second family, and the blessing that brought Tessa into our lives.
JENNY:
We all met when Tessa was just six years old. With her bright eyes and adorable dimples, she was always the pretty one. Hayley and I on the other hand… We were such tomboys and always so envious of her. With each year, Tessa became more beautiful. Not only because of her looks, but because of her spirit. Even at six, her selflessness and ability to love was far beyond what you’d expect of someone of that age. She truly had an old soul.
HAYLEY:
The four of us were attached at the hip for 24 hours a day for those 6 days once a year. Burn Camp has a few traditions; one being “skit night”. Each cabin had an opportunity to present some sort of performance for the whole camp. One year, our cabin did a rendition of Moulin Rouge. When we sat around and planned out who was going to be each of the girls in the song. I was Christina Aguilera, Jenny was Lil’ Kim, and Tessa agreed to be Mya: the first voice. Although she was one of the quieter and somewhat shy girls in our cabin, she came out wearing this scandelous crop top, and when the time came, just strutted her stuff in front of everybody.
CARLA:
I will never forget that performance. I couldn’t take my eyes off her! I kept thinking “Who is this DIVA and what did she do with my little Tessa!”
I had the privilege of being Tessa’s camp counsellor, and in the earlier years of having a sort of mother/daughter, mom away from home relationship with her. I got to be the fun mom with no rules. I remember one year on the last day of camp when Steve and Wendy were there to pick her up, I overheard Tessa say to them “Guess what, I only brushed my teeth once this week!!” I quickly tried to change the subject before she could tell them that she had had even less baths. As our camp sweetheart grew into a young woman I was proud to call her my friend.
JENNY:
It was always heartbreaking when those 6 days were over each summer. Hayley and I were a little boy crazy (WERE) so we used to take the slightly reluctant Tessa and run around on the last day with my disposable camera, snap pictures of the cute boys and then take off. I was reminded of this because when I was looking through photos, all the ones of boys were kind of awkward and indirect angles. It’s funny because after all those years, it was Tessa who found true love. It doesn’t surprise me though, because I mean, what’s not to love.
HAYLEY:
I was fortunate enough to be able to spend time with Tessa outside of camp as well. Every so often we would meet up for sleepovers at Carla’s, where we would stay up all night and giggle about typical teenage things like boys, school, life in Surrey or Squamish, camp, family, and so on. I remember one time Carla and Tessa dragged me to one of the Twilight movies, against my will of course. I remember laughing through the whole movie and every five minutes Tessa would punch me in the arm and give me a stern “be quiet Hayley!” look. But after some time, all three of us were laughing hysterically and we were able to poke fun at the ridiculous acting together.
JENNY:
Tessa, the cancer may have taken you, but it can and will never erase the mark you left on our hearts. I feel inspired by the legacy you’ve left behind, by your strength, and by your beauty. I watched you grow from a young child of six years old to an amazing woman of eighteen, and I will always cherish the moments we spent together. You are family to me and I love you and miss you. You will forever be carried on in our memories.
HAYLEY:
Girl, you have got to be one of the bravest and most inspirational warriors I have ever had the honor of calling my friend. Though you will be greatly missed, the positive memories you have created with these people are endless. To all the family, friends, and admirers of this beautiful woman, remember the good times, because those are the only ones that matter in the end. I will love and carry Tessa until the life leaves my own body. Rest in peace my angel. We love you.
CARLA:
Tessa, you will be forever missed and never forgotten. At 6 years old you taught me the definition of selflessness. I am so proud of you for fighting until the very end. You made me a better person and although you have left us way too early, I am happy that you are no longer in pain. I know I speak for everyone from burn camp when I say we are so thankful that Tessa was brought into our lives. She lived with integrity and loved with all her heart.
So Tessa: from all of us at Burn Camp, we want to say “we’re proud of you kid”.
Thank You.
Coaching Tessa
By Ryan Tyrell - Basketball Coach, Holy Cross
There is so much one could say about Tessa. There is simply not enough time or enough words that can explain the absolute privilege it was to coach her for 4 years at Holy Cross and the honor it was to know her as a person over the past 6 years. My name is Ryan Tyrrell and I was lucky enough to be granted that privilege and honor. About 6 years ago Gianni Bittante approached me and asked me to help him coach a grade 8 girls basketball team at Holy Cross. “Ryan, we have this group coming in to grade 8 he said and I need some help with them, their pretty good, but you should see this one girl she’s something special.” At the time I thought “special” simply meant on the court. Little did I know just how special this girl was.
There are certain characteristics coaches love to see in their athletes. Tessa had all of them and then some. As an athlete she prepared like the best, worked harder than anyone, was an incredible leader, supremely talented, intelligent, and had the ultimate competitive desire. As a person she was even better, a sense of humor that was unrivaled, she was beautiful, smart, a great friend, inspirational and so much more. You wouldn’t believe the lengths Tess would go to in order to make sure she was prepared to play. She would eat, drink and sleep when and what you told her too. She practiced hard, watched film and never came across a scouting report that had too many details for her. Like many great athletes Tess also had a few superstitions. Ok maybe more than a few. I remember one morning before a provincial tournament game in Kamloops she came to me with a concerned look on her face. She said “Ryan, what color socks should I wear? I play better in black, but they are still wet from yesterday.” I started to laugh at her but she quickly snapped at me “this isn’t a joke.” I said well you always say people look slow in black so go with the white ones. She responded no I’ll wear black the other team will think I’m slow and then I’ll blow by them. “Glad I could help Tess.” She would do anything to get an advantage and never left anything to chance.
It wasn’t all superstition for Tessa though. She knew what it took to be great and worked harder than anyone to be that. She played hard and practiced harder. She spent lunch hours shooting, summers working out and weekends playing with the best in the province. As many of you know Tessa underwent some pretty rigorous treatment the summer and fall of her grade 11 year. She missed the majority of her volleyball season, but recovered enough to get a late start to basketball. Early on you could tell she was frustrated. Her mind was working like it always had but her body just wouldn’t respond. We talked after practice one day and I suggested extra work outs. The next day after our game she came up to me “I need to work out, lets go.” And so it began after every game and every practice she would run stairs, do core work outs, skip, whatever I asked her to do she would do. We had a goal to get ready for provincials and she far exceeded that goal. People marveled at how hard Tessa worked. Chris Blesch told me a story that proved just that. Tess and Steve showed up at the school around 11pm as Chris was locking up one night. She had had an uncharacteristic poor shooting performance just hours before in the BC Catholics and it wasn’t going to happen again. Daughter and father spent a few late night hours in “the gym” she called her second home. She shot the ball great the next night.
Rarely do you get unprecedented leadership and talent in one athlete, but Tessa was just that. She was a leader off the court, organizing her teammates and planning team events. She led by example and acted as another coach on the court. Her teammates respected her and trusted her. She was the pulse of every team she played on. As Tessa went so went the team.
Everyone could see how talented Tessa was. Whether it was a baseline drive finishing with a reverse layup, a spin move in transition resulting in 2 points, a 3 pointer from the corner or that baby hook her dad spent countless hours refining with her, Tessa was impressive to watch. Her skills didn’t end their she would break down pressure defenses with her dribble, step in and take charges and use her long arms to block opponents time and time again. But it wasn’t until her grade 11 season when she took it to a level the basketball community had never seen. With blurred vision in her right eye she decided to dawn an eye patch in order to perform more consistently. Game after game her performances impressed and I realized just how fortunate I was to have have the opportunity to coach a talent like her.
Tessa was probably as smart if not smarter as she was talented. When one aspect of her game wasn’t going she would find other ways to contribute. She studied opponents tendencies and knew where teammates and opponents would be before they did. She could read and anticipate plays better than anyone. She’d help teammates learn our systems off the court and give them tips and guidance on the court.
Tessa’s preparation, hard work, leadership, talent and intelligence set her apart but it was her competitiveness and desire that took her to another level. She never met a challenge she couldn’t over come, or a bet that she didn’t think she could win. “Tess half court shot for a booster juice,” I would say during a water break at practice. Or “if you get a double double I’ll buy you a booster juice,” I owed her more booster juices than she could drink.
In talking to numerous basketball coaches over the past week and a half the memory of Tessa that seems to be at the forefront of everyones mind depicts this desire and competitiveness to a tee. Tessa had learned in early february of last year that her cancer had returned yet again. A month later Tessa was competing in her grade 12 basketball provincials. The cancer by this time was making it difficult for her to breathe and left her extremely fatigued. It was our quarter final game against arch rival Sahali from Kamloops a team that had beaten us in dramatic fashion in years past. It was the feature game on Thursday evening in front of a loud Kamloops crowd. From the start it was evident Tessa was putting in a performance to be remembered. She played close to 40mins, scoring 30 points and was a stall worth on defense and on the boards. Single handedly urging her team on to victory and a place in the semi finals. As in life and athletics Tessa refused to give up, she simply could not accept no for an answer.
People often ask me why I coach. There are countless reasons, including the ability to provide experiences and opportunities to young athletes the same way I was granted them. Tessa wasn’t just one of those athletes. No, Tess is the reason I stay up till 2am watching film, take vacation time to go on basketball trips, and basically eat, sleep and coach basketball for 5 months of the year.
Tessa was an idol to younger athletes, respected by opponents, admired by teammates, cherished by family and friends and loved by all. If today is any indication, Tess has touched the lives of many and will continue to inspire many more for years and years to come. Tess you will always be an inspiration to me, I miss you and I love you!
There is so much one could say about Tessa. There is simply not enough time or enough words that can explain the absolute privilege it was to coach her for 4 years at Holy Cross and the honor it was to know her as a person over the past 6 years. My name is Ryan Tyrrell and I was lucky enough to be granted that privilege and honor. About 6 years ago Gianni Bittante approached me and asked me to help him coach a grade 8 girls basketball team at Holy Cross. “Ryan, we have this group coming in to grade 8 he said and I need some help with them, their pretty good, but you should see this one girl she’s something special.” At the time I thought “special” simply meant on the court. Little did I know just how special this girl was.
There are certain characteristics coaches love to see in their athletes. Tessa had all of them and then some. As an athlete she prepared like the best, worked harder than anyone, was an incredible leader, supremely talented, intelligent, and had the ultimate competitive desire. As a person she was even better, a sense of humor that was unrivaled, she was beautiful, smart, a great friend, inspirational and so much more. You wouldn’t believe the lengths Tess would go to in order to make sure she was prepared to play. She would eat, drink and sleep when and what you told her too. She practiced hard, watched film and never came across a scouting report that had too many details for her. Like many great athletes Tess also had a few superstitions. Ok maybe more than a few. I remember one morning before a provincial tournament game in Kamloops she came to me with a concerned look on her face. She said “Ryan, what color socks should I wear? I play better in black, but they are still wet from yesterday.” I started to laugh at her but she quickly snapped at me “this isn’t a joke.” I said well you always say people look slow in black so go with the white ones. She responded no I’ll wear black the other team will think I’m slow and then I’ll blow by them. “Glad I could help Tess.” She would do anything to get an advantage and never left anything to chance.
It wasn’t all superstition for Tessa though. She knew what it took to be great and worked harder than anyone to be that. She played hard and practiced harder. She spent lunch hours shooting, summers working out and weekends playing with the best in the province. As many of you know Tessa underwent some pretty rigorous treatment the summer and fall of her grade 11 year. She missed the majority of her volleyball season, but recovered enough to get a late start to basketball. Early on you could tell she was frustrated. Her mind was working like it always had but her body just wouldn’t respond. We talked after practice one day and I suggested extra work outs. The next day after our game she came up to me “I need to work out, lets go.” And so it began after every game and every practice she would run stairs, do core work outs, skip, whatever I asked her to do she would do. We had a goal to get ready for provincials and she far exceeded that goal. People marveled at how hard Tessa worked. Chris Blesch told me a story that proved just that. Tess and Steve showed up at the school around 11pm as Chris was locking up one night. She had had an uncharacteristic poor shooting performance just hours before in the BC Catholics and it wasn’t going to happen again. Daughter and father spent a few late night hours in “the gym” she called her second home. She shot the ball great the next night.
Rarely do you get unprecedented leadership and talent in one athlete, but Tessa was just that. She was a leader off the court, organizing her teammates and planning team events. She led by example and acted as another coach on the court. Her teammates respected her and trusted her. She was the pulse of every team she played on. As Tessa went so went the team.
Everyone could see how talented Tessa was. Whether it was a baseline drive finishing with a reverse layup, a spin move in transition resulting in 2 points, a 3 pointer from the corner or that baby hook her dad spent countless hours refining with her, Tessa was impressive to watch. Her skills didn’t end their she would break down pressure defenses with her dribble, step in and take charges and use her long arms to block opponents time and time again. But it wasn’t until her grade 11 season when she took it to a level the basketball community had never seen. With blurred vision in her right eye she decided to dawn an eye patch in order to perform more consistently. Game after game her performances impressed and I realized just how fortunate I was to have have the opportunity to coach a talent like her.
Tessa was probably as smart if not smarter as she was talented. When one aspect of her game wasn’t going she would find other ways to contribute. She studied opponents tendencies and knew where teammates and opponents would be before they did. She could read and anticipate plays better than anyone. She’d help teammates learn our systems off the court and give them tips and guidance on the court.
Tessa’s preparation, hard work, leadership, talent and intelligence set her apart but it was her competitiveness and desire that took her to another level. She never met a challenge she couldn’t over come, or a bet that she didn’t think she could win. “Tess half court shot for a booster juice,” I would say during a water break at practice. Or “if you get a double double I’ll buy you a booster juice,” I owed her more booster juices than she could drink.
In talking to numerous basketball coaches over the past week and a half the memory of Tessa that seems to be at the forefront of everyones mind depicts this desire and competitiveness to a tee. Tessa had learned in early february of last year that her cancer had returned yet again. A month later Tessa was competing in her grade 12 basketball provincials. The cancer by this time was making it difficult for her to breathe and left her extremely fatigued. It was our quarter final game against arch rival Sahali from Kamloops a team that had beaten us in dramatic fashion in years past. It was the feature game on Thursday evening in front of a loud Kamloops crowd. From the start it was evident Tessa was putting in a performance to be remembered. She played close to 40mins, scoring 30 points and was a stall worth on defense and on the boards. Single handedly urging her team on to victory and a place in the semi finals. As in life and athletics Tessa refused to give up, she simply could not accept no for an answer.
People often ask me why I coach. There are countless reasons, including the ability to provide experiences and opportunities to young athletes the same way I was granted them. Tessa wasn’t just one of those athletes. No, Tess is the reason I stay up till 2am watching film, take vacation time to go on basketball trips, and basically eat, sleep and coach basketball for 5 months of the year.
Tessa was an idol to younger athletes, respected by opponents, admired by teammates, cherished by family and friends and loved by all. If today is any indication, Tess has touched the lives of many and will continue to inspire many more for years and years to come. Tess you will always be an inspiration to me, I miss you and I love you!
Celebration of Life
By Allison McNeil - Canadian Women’s Basketball Coach
I am honoured to represent the basketball community here today as we celebrate Tessa’s life.
I want to start by sharing my own story of my first meeting with Tessa. Of course it was in a gym… where else would it be?
I was doing a kids basketball camp at the Surrey Y.
On the first day I took attendance and I read off Tessa’s name, but she was not there.
About 30 minutes into the camp in walks Steve with Tessa. I went up to Steve and said “Hey, your late!” and he proceeded to tell me that they had just been in a car accident and that is why they were late. I asked Steve what had happened and he said a car turned left incorrectly and Steve hit the car. The ambulance came and checked them both out and said they were good… he suggested to Tessa that they should go home, but Tessa would not hear of it and she insisted that Steve bring her to the Basketball Camp!
So would be my introduction to the determination, resiliency, toughness and joy that was Tessa Beauchamp.
I also had the privilege of coaching Tessa at the BC-CP. She was such a great competitor, and so excited to be at CP to test herself against all of the other great players in BC. One day we had the athletes playing 1 on 1 in positions - She was with the wing-forwards. What I remember is Tessa, Lexie Der, Erin Chambers, Steph Bell and Kayli Sartori going at it - no one giving an inch! It was beautiful to see. Tessa so loved to compete and would not back down from any challenge…. And always that smile on her face with the joy of playing the game she loved.
I am just so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her at CP.
One of Tessa’s Provincial Team coaches, Frank Chan told me this story:
He remembers it being an awesome summer with a great team. But the thing that stood out the most was a game in Seattle against “Way To Win”. It was a late game, their second game of the day, and they were in the University of Washington side gym with no air conditioning in the sweltering summer heat. Tessa wasn’t feeling too well before the game. The team was playing hard, but not very sharp and the game was a battle. Tessa tried to play the first half but she was getting a bad headache so the coaches sat her for the rest of the half. They were in a close game and in the fourth quarter, things were not going well and the BC team did not have the momentum. Frank said he did not know if Tessa realized that the team was drained and needed something… but she came up to the coaches and said she could go back in. They decided to put her back in the game. She went in and immediately got a tough rebound, then made a great drive on the next possession. Then with about a minute to go, they were down 1 and Tessa drained a three to put them up 2 and they never looked back.
Later back at the hotel the team was excited with the win… Frank saw Tessa in the hall of the hotel later that evening and she was getting ice for her headache. She had battled a severe headache to help the team win and never let on how bad it was.
Frank and Marchi said they had a great time coaching that group of athletes, and much of it was due to Tessa and the connections the players and coaches had with her.
My Husband Mike McNeill had the privilege of coaching Tessa at RTC and he told me that after every, and I mean EVERY, RTC session Tessa was in it from Gr. 8-10 she came up to him and to say “thanks, Mike” - even if he was talking to someone else, or working with another athlete, she would always make sure she said thanks - Mike would actually be waiting to have Tessa come up and thank him, It made his Day and he looked forward to it! She always had a way of making others feel good!
This is a story that Stu Graham told me after competing at the Surrey Fire-Fighter’s Tournament.
Tessa competed at the Surrey Firefighters Tournament with an eye patch to reduce her double vision and her face was puffy due to the steroid treatment…. But none of this concerned Tessa because it had no bearing on how her team would perform. She just wanted to play and, of course to beat whomever Holy Cross was playing!
At the end of the tournament Tessa was awarded the Most Inspirational Player. She received a long, standing ovation from a full house of players and spectators. That day everyone who was in the gym recognized what a special young woman they had the opportunity to witness, and a special moment that they had all been part of.
It was never about Tessa, but rather about a journey she was on and one she would not burden others with. Instead she approached everything with an incredibly positive attitude - inspiring both her peers and those of us who would learn how powerful her smile was, and still is, in our memories.
Here are a few words from Norm Roberts who coached Tessa at both RTC and CP.
At last year’s AA Provincial Championships, Tess lead her Holy Cross team to the Bronze medal and a 3rd place finish. At the end of play Norm went on the floor to hug and congratulate her. He said something to the effect that she had played extremely well throughout the tournament and that he was amazed at her quiet leadership and that her strength and calmness were truly a mystery to him. Of course she knew that he was talking about much more than just basketball. And without missing a beat she said; Thanks coach, I am so happy just to be here, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
Throughout our lives we are sent precious souls… meant to share our journey however brief or lasting their stay they remind us why we are here.
To learn... to teach... to nurture... to love
Some people come into our lives and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never ever the same.
Tessa you are forever in our hearts.
I am honoured to represent the basketball community here today as we celebrate Tessa’s life.
I want to start by sharing my own story of my first meeting with Tessa. Of course it was in a gym… where else would it be?
I was doing a kids basketball camp at the Surrey Y.
On the first day I took attendance and I read off Tessa’s name, but she was not there.
About 30 minutes into the camp in walks Steve with Tessa. I went up to Steve and said “Hey, your late!” and he proceeded to tell me that they had just been in a car accident and that is why they were late. I asked Steve what had happened and he said a car turned left incorrectly and Steve hit the car. The ambulance came and checked them both out and said they were good… he suggested to Tessa that they should go home, but Tessa would not hear of it and she insisted that Steve bring her to the Basketball Camp!
So would be my introduction to the determination, resiliency, toughness and joy that was Tessa Beauchamp.
I also had the privilege of coaching Tessa at the BC-CP. She was such a great competitor, and so excited to be at CP to test herself against all of the other great players in BC. One day we had the athletes playing 1 on 1 in positions - She was with the wing-forwards. What I remember is Tessa, Lexie Der, Erin Chambers, Steph Bell and Kayli Sartori going at it - no one giving an inch! It was beautiful to see. Tessa so loved to compete and would not back down from any challenge…. And always that smile on her face with the joy of playing the game she loved.
I am just so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her at CP.
One of Tessa’s Provincial Team coaches, Frank Chan told me this story:
He remembers it being an awesome summer with a great team. But the thing that stood out the most was a game in Seattle against “Way To Win”. It was a late game, their second game of the day, and they were in the University of Washington side gym with no air conditioning in the sweltering summer heat. Tessa wasn’t feeling too well before the game. The team was playing hard, but not very sharp and the game was a battle. Tessa tried to play the first half but she was getting a bad headache so the coaches sat her for the rest of the half. They were in a close game and in the fourth quarter, things were not going well and the BC team did not have the momentum. Frank said he did not know if Tessa realized that the team was drained and needed something… but she came up to the coaches and said she could go back in. They decided to put her back in the game. She went in and immediately got a tough rebound, then made a great drive on the next possession. Then with about a minute to go, they were down 1 and Tessa drained a three to put them up 2 and they never looked back.
Later back at the hotel the team was excited with the win… Frank saw Tessa in the hall of the hotel later that evening and she was getting ice for her headache. She had battled a severe headache to help the team win and never let on how bad it was.
Frank and Marchi said they had a great time coaching that group of athletes, and much of it was due to Tessa and the connections the players and coaches had with her.
My Husband Mike McNeill had the privilege of coaching Tessa at RTC and he told me that after every, and I mean EVERY, RTC session Tessa was in it from Gr. 8-10 she came up to him and to say “thanks, Mike” - even if he was talking to someone else, or working with another athlete, she would always make sure she said thanks - Mike would actually be waiting to have Tessa come up and thank him, It made his Day and he looked forward to it! She always had a way of making others feel good!
This is a story that Stu Graham told me after competing at the Surrey Fire-Fighter’s Tournament.
Tessa competed at the Surrey Firefighters Tournament with an eye patch to reduce her double vision and her face was puffy due to the steroid treatment…. But none of this concerned Tessa because it had no bearing on how her team would perform. She just wanted to play and, of course to beat whomever Holy Cross was playing!
At the end of the tournament Tessa was awarded the Most Inspirational Player. She received a long, standing ovation from a full house of players and spectators. That day everyone who was in the gym recognized what a special young woman they had the opportunity to witness, and a special moment that they had all been part of.
It was never about Tessa, but rather about a journey she was on and one she would not burden others with. Instead she approached everything with an incredibly positive attitude - inspiring both her peers and those of us who would learn how powerful her smile was, and still is, in our memories.
Here are a few words from Norm Roberts who coached Tessa at both RTC and CP.
At last year’s AA Provincial Championships, Tess lead her Holy Cross team to the Bronze medal and a 3rd place finish. At the end of play Norm went on the floor to hug and congratulate her. He said something to the effect that she had played extremely well throughout the tournament and that he was amazed at her quiet leadership and that her strength and calmness were truly a mystery to him. Of course she knew that he was talking about much more than just basketball. And without missing a beat she said; Thanks coach, I am so happy just to be here, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
Throughout our lives we are sent precious souls… meant to share our journey however brief or lasting their stay they remind us why we are here.
To learn... to teach... to nurture... to love
Some people come into our lives and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never ever the same.
Tessa you are forever in our hearts.
Remembering Tessa
By Melissa Stephens & Stephanie Jellen - Tessa’s Cousins
Hi I’m Melissa - (and I’m Stephanie, we are two of Tessa’s cousins on her Dad’s side.) - We like to call Tessa our little cousin even though for the past few years she towered over us. (We watched Tessa grow and become a beautiful young woman, and have spent every birthday, every Christmas with her.) It’s difficult to fit nearly 19 years of memories into a 5-minute speech, but we want to share a few memories that really demonstrate the kind of person Tessa was. Tessa was always the one who was good at public speaking in the family, so we did this for you Tess.
Tessa loved to dance - when we would go to Canucks games, she would be the first one on her feet at stop of play, pulling me up with her. She especially loved family weddings for the dancing. I remember as soon as my brother got a girlfriend, Tessa started asking every time she saw him “so when are you gonna get married? I want to go to a family wedding!” Now I can’t imagine a family wedding without her in the middle of the dance floor but I know her spirit will be there with us at the next family wedding, smiling and dancing with the rest of us wondering why it took so long for us to finally put a wedding together!
Tessa was always the go-getter of the family and was never one to back down from a challenge. When we travelled to Edmonton for our family reunion, one night we decided that we wanted ice cream as we often did, so we ventured out to the parking lot to Wendy’s but much to our dismay it was closed! The drive thru was still open though so, Tessa never wanting to give up, suggested we go through the drive through on foot. She loved her ice cream after all! She started to knock on the window when she realized they were obviously ignoring us. “We’re from BC, we promise we won’t tell anyone!” she said with her signature smile. Needless to say, the young man at the window couldn’t resist and ended up giving us our ice cream.
Despite being the middle child, Tessa loved looking after everyone. We were staying in a hotel once and, as usual, we were playing with the elevator buttons. It worked out that Tessa and I walked out of the elevator, and Amy, Rachel and my sister Miranda got stuck inside with about half a foot of the door open. All we could see in the elevator was Rachel screaming, Amy crying and Miranda in shock. It took Tessa about half a second to jump into action, immediately comforting her sisters and calmly talking Miranda through pressing the emergency button, and speaking to the front desk herself. She stayed at the crack in the door until all the girls got out, and her confidence never wavered.
I had suggested to Tessa for over a year to get a puppy when she got Maddy; her and I have always had a shared love for dogs and we used to argue jokingly about which of us would have more dogs when we grew up and got houses of our own. Dogs are the best form of therapy and a puppy can’t help but make you smile. When she finally got Maddy I went over to meet the new addition and I remember Tessa showing me a picture of another pup that she had actually preferred - apparently everybody else preferred Maddy and Maddy had therefore won by a majority. I asked why the rest of the family hadn’t wanted the other pup and Tessa said “they thought she was funny looking. I wanted her because I knew Maddy would find a good home being so cute. Nobody else thought the other pup was cute, but I thought she was beautiful and I wanted to give her a good life.” I couldn’t believe someone so young could be so wise, so full of love. Nevertheless, she fell instantly in love with Maddy and when I brought her to see Tessa at Surrey Memorial, I couldn’t believe how well behaved she was which was an obvious testament to Tessa. I took Maddy in to be spayed last week and after the procedure, she snored on my lap for almost 2 hours before deciding to wake up - I was sure she was busy dreaming about her Tessa. I put a special tattoo in her ear that said love TB #23; even though Tessa’s not physically here anymore, Maddy will always be Tess’ baby.
Tessa loved spoiling others, it was never about just her. It was about her family, or her team as a whole. Even when Daniel Sedin came to visit her and asked her what position she played on the court, she looked at me and mouthed “who, me?” When I was asked at an interview who most inspired me, I automatically answered “my cousin, Tessa.” When they asked me why, I contemplated talking about her unwavering positivity, her strength throughout all her physically taxing treatments, or the fact that she pushed herself back onto the court repeatedly despite partial hearing loss, bad headaches and double vision. Instead I said “she’s in palliative care now, and tired all the time, but whenever anybody walks in to her room, she smiles that beautiful welcoming smile because she doesn’t want it to be about her. ” This love of others gave her an innate gift when it came to children. At family parties, She was the one all the young kids wanted to hang out with; like a gravitational pull as soon as they walked in the door they raced to be at her side. She used to talk about having tons of kids along with her tons of dogs and I know she would have been the most amazing mother.
You know a life is well lived when a person can inspire, accomplish, love and live more in 18 years than most people can in 80. The Beauchamp’s have a quote hanging on their wall that says: “Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some people move our souls to dance. They awaken us to new understanding with the passing whisper of their wisdom. Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze upon. They stay in our lives for a while, leave footprints in our hearts, and we are never, ever the same.” Tessa, you were taken far too quickly but your wisdom, strength, passion and love have all moved our souls to dance. When we look at the sky, we’ll see you and your beautiful smile, and behind that smile, your beautiful soul. You have left footprints on the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to have met you and none of us will ever, ever be the same.
Hi I’m Melissa - (and I’m Stephanie, we are two of Tessa’s cousins on her Dad’s side.) - We like to call Tessa our little cousin even though for the past few years she towered over us. (We watched Tessa grow and become a beautiful young woman, and have spent every birthday, every Christmas with her.) It’s difficult to fit nearly 19 years of memories into a 5-minute speech, but we want to share a few memories that really demonstrate the kind of person Tessa was. Tessa was always the one who was good at public speaking in the family, so we did this for you Tess.
Tessa loved to dance - when we would go to Canucks games, she would be the first one on her feet at stop of play, pulling me up with her. She especially loved family weddings for the dancing. I remember as soon as my brother got a girlfriend, Tessa started asking every time she saw him “so when are you gonna get married? I want to go to a family wedding!” Now I can’t imagine a family wedding without her in the middle of the dance floor but I know her spirit will be there with us at the next family wedding, smiling and dancing with the rest of us wondering why it took so long for us to finally put a wedding together!
Tessa was always the go-getter of the family and was never one to back down from a challenge. When we travelled to Edmonton for our family reunion, one night we decided that we wanted ice cream as we often did, so we ventured out to the parking lot to Wendy’s but much to our dismay it was closed! The drive thru was still open though so, Tessa never wanting to give up, suggested we go through the drive through on foot. She loved her ice cream after all! She started to knock on the window when she realized they were obviously ignoring us. “We’re from BC, we promise we won’t tell anyone!” she said with her signature smile. Needless to say, the young man at the window couldn’t resist and ended up giving us our ice cream.
Despite being the middle child, Tessa loved looking after everyone. We were staying in a hotel once and, as usual, we were playing with the elevator buttons. It worked out that Tessa and I walked out of the elevator, and Amy, Rachel and my sister Miranda got stuck inside with about half a foot of the door open. All we could see in the elevator was Rachel screaming, Amy crying and Miranda in shock. It took Tessa about half a second to jump into action, immediately comforting her sisters and calmly talking Miranda through pressing the emergency button, and speaking to the front desk herself. She stayed at the crack in the door until all the girls got out, and her confidence never wavered.
I had suggested to Tessa for over a year to get a puppy when she got Maddy; her and I have always had a shared love for dogs and we used to argue jokingly about which of us would have more dogs when we grew up and got houses of our own. Dogs are the best form of therapy and a puppy can’t help but make you smile. When she finally got Maddy I went over to meet the new addition and I remember Tessa showing me a picture of another pup that she had actually preferred - apparently everybody else preferred Maddy and Maddy had therefore won by a majority. I asked why the rest of the family hadn’t wanted the other pup and Tessa said “they thought she was funny looking. I wanted her because I knew Maddy would find a good home being so cute. Nobody else thought the other pup was cute, but I thought she was beautiful and I wanted to give her a good life.” I couldn’t believe someone so young could be so wise, so full of love. Nevertheless, she fell instantly in love with Maddy and when I brought her to see Tessa at Surrey Memorial, I couldn’t believe how well behaved she was which was an obvious testament to Tessa. I took Maddy in to be spayed last week and after the procedure, she snored on my lap for almost 2 hours before deciding to wake up - I was sure she was busy dreaming about her Tessa. I put a special tattoo in her ear that said love TB #23; even though Tessa’s not physically here anymore, Maddy will always be Tess’ baby.
Tessa loved spoiling others, it was never about just her. It was about her family, or her team as a whole. Even when Daniel Sedin came to visit her and asked her what position she played on the court, she looked at me and mouthed “who, me?” When I was asked at an interview who most inspired me, I automatically answered “my cousin, Tessa.” When they asked me why, I contemplated talking about her unwavering positivity, her strength throughout all her physically taxing treatments, or the fact that she pushed herself back onto the court repeatedly despite partial hearing loss, bad headaches and double vision. Instead I said “she’s in palliative care now, and tired all the time, but whenever anybody walks in to her room, she smiles that beautiful welcoming smile because she doesn’t want it to be about her. ” This love of others gave her an innate gift when it came to children. At family parties, She was the one all the young kids wanted to hang out with; like a gravitational pull as soon as they walked in the door they raced to be at her side. She used to talk about having tons of kids along with her tons of dogs and I know she would have been the most amazing mother.
You know a life is well lived when a person can inspire, accomplish, love and live more in 18 years than most people can in 80. The Beauchamp’s have a quote hanging on their wall that says: “Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some people move our souls to dance. They awaken us to new understanding with the passing whisper of their wisdom. Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze upon. They stay in our lives for a while, leave footprints in our hearts, and we are never, ever the same.” Tessa, you were taken far too quickly but your wisdom, strength, passion and love have all moved our souls to dance. When we look at the sky, we’ll see you and your beautiful smile, and behind that smile, your beautiful soul. You have left footprints on the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to have met you and none of us will ever, ever be the same.
