Alanya Echols

Type of Donation:       Tissue

Age and Location:      28, Los Angeles, CA

Donation Date:           June 2017

Sponsor:                      Honored by OneLegacy - FSS

ALANYA’S STORY

Alanya Echols made a mark on the world in her twenty-eight years on earth, and continued her legacy as an organ, eye and tissue donor. In high school she broke the Paramount High School track record in the 300-meter hurdles. When asked what she thinks about when she runs, Alanya answered, "to win."



After high school, she attended California State University, Dominguez Hills where she became "Lady Say," a radio host on the station KDHR. She covered a variety of topics on air including relationships, politics, culture and entertainment. The show had a loyal following including her stepfather, older sister and mother. Alanya dedicated an entire Mother's Day episode to her mother, Marilyn. Alanya showed her affection for her mother publicly and often, including on the Lifetime Channel television show, "Prank My Mom" with Vivica A Fox. After graduating from CSU with a bachelor's degree in communications, Alanya became an accomplished poet, author, actress, teacher, and artist.



Despite her busy schedule, Alanya reserved time for her family and friends, especially her nieces and nephews, who held a special place in her heart. Alanya believed in mentorship, relying on her own mentors, and supporting mentees. Alanya was a unique, loving person, a vegan with a beautiful smile and contagious heart. It shocked her entire community when the day after her twenty-eighth birthday, Alanya took her own life.



Alanya dropped the mic, but her mother picked it up. Out of her grief, Marilyn Echols created a program that provides emotional support and resources for people in crisis. She named the program Lullabies for the Soul, the title of a collection of poetry written by Alanya.