As I sit to pen this letter, my heart swells with a profound sense of gratitude and pride for the journey that my children, Allyson and Wes, have embarked upon together. Watching them grow from spirited children into impactful adults, working side by side, fills me with an indescribable joy.
Wes, my firstborn, arrived in 1983, a precious gift after seven years of eager anticipation. His birth, marked with urgent whispers, hurried steps of doctors, and ultimately culminating with an emergency cesarean, was a testament to God’s grace. As his heart rate dropped rapidly, there was significant fear that his brain could have suffered from the prolonged lack of oxygen. Yet, here he stands today, a protective and loving brother and a visionary leader.
Allyson, born two years later, quickly became the light of our home. Her early nickname, 'Wes in a Dress,' was soon lovingly replaced by 'Shug,' a nod to her sweet as sugar disposition that stuck through the years. From a young age, Wes would plead on his sisters behalf that she would do better at following parental directions next time and to please, please, pretty please spare Allyson from her inevitable spankings. Wes’s pleadings were an early display of the unbreakable bond that they have always shared.
This bond blossomed through countless track meets across Los Angeles, where their passion for running shone brightly. I recall with fondness the Pasadena Games, where both were named athletes of the meet—a proud moment for any parent. Their shared dedication led them to USC, where they were roommates and where Wes became a team captain and an All-American, and Allyson, at just 18, stepped onto the global stage at the Olympics, winning a silver medal.
Their achievements on the track were always secondary to their spiritual journey. As a mother who passionately loves the Lord, nothing warms my heart more than seeing them live out their faith in every aspect of their lives.
The decision for Wes to become Allyson's agent was a natural progression of their teamwork. It has been a blessing to watch Wes care for Allyson in the competitive world of professional sports. Together, they have not only excelled in athletics but have also built Saysh, a testament to their shared vision and hard work. I still remember the overwhelming pride I felt walking into their store for the first time, surrounded by the tangible results of their dreams and efforts.
Every day, they inspire me with their commitment to making a difference and using their God-given talents to impact the world positively. As their mother, my prayer is that my children will walk with the Lord and strive to create a better future for all.
On this Mother's Day, I find myself reflecting deeply on the essence of motherhood. To me, it is a divine commission filled with moments both challenging and rewarding. It’s about teaching, nurturing, and above all, loving unconditionally. This day serves as a reminder of the incredible journey that is motherhood—one that has shaped me as much as I have shaped my children. It's a day to honor the enduring strength, wisdom, and grace of all mothers—qualities that they pass on to their children, shaping the future one heart at a time.
To my beloved Shug and Wes, you have brought such immense joy and purpose to my life. Your love and successes are my proudest achievements. Thank you for the beautiful moments we’ve shared and the love that you continue to spread in all that you do. Each step you take in kindness and faith reaffirms my deepest hopes as a mother.
To all mothers, today we celebrate the beautiful journey we share, the sacrifices made, and the unconditional love that defines our every day. May this Mother’s Day remind us of our pivotal role in nurturing the leaders, thinkers, and carers of tomorrow.
With all my love and gratitude,
Mom
Marlean Felix
