A Teacher, A Trainer, Most of all a Loyal Cardinal

The Lash name is a legacy at BDHS, with generations of family members who have walked the halls of campus and competed in the well-known Brick House and the Eva Jane McDonald Memorial Field. Kristy left her own "Lash" legacy as a teacher and athletic trainer, changing the lives of countless young students. Her presence on campus inspired admiration for her skill and knowledge in the training room, and many students who watched her work went on to pursue careers in sports medicine.

To this day, many who are still at BDHS can recall special moments with Kristy — whether it was Fritter Friday, enjoying apple fritters from the local donut shop in the faculty lounge, dressing in full Dodger Blue attire during baseball season, or the lessons she created for biology and anatomy, often tying them back to our Cardinal athletes' experiences or her favorite sports. The amount of time Kristy dedicated to the school and its students was remarkable. She taught a full class schedule while caring for four to eight sports teams every season, giving every athlete her full attention and care.

When Kristy left to pursue her next professional path as a nurse, she remained a devoted fan of Cardinal sports, still showing up on the field and court to cheer us on. She kept many of the friendships she built here, and even after time apart, reconnecting with her always felt natural as if no time had passed.

As true Cardinals, we flocked together in the faculty lounge and shared some personal memories, including:

"Kristy was a kind, friendly teacher with a passion for her field."
— Ms. Combs

"Kristy was a true gift from God and her kindness continues through those she loved well. Her smile, laugh, baking delights, the bold colors she wore all spread warmth and joy."
— Mrs. Sodusta

"Kristy's passion for her roles in the classroom and in athletics were so evident in the way she cared for her students and athletes and the way they gravitated towards her. The students at BDHS loved her and she had such a wonderful impact on everyone who knew her. Her absence as an athletic trainer, in particular, has been a huge void that will always remain."
— Mrs. Adam

"Kristy was like a mama bear with a bunch of cubs when she was our ATC. She took the time to get to know each of our student-athletes as people and built relationships with them that helped her work with them, treat them, and counsel them. She knew who needed to be encouraged, who needed to be guided, who needed to be consoled — and that's why she was so effective and enjoyed by those who worked with her. For sure, she was someone who was as valuable as anyone on our athletic staff — a people person, a professional, and someone who enjoyed serving others."
— Mr. Crawford

"I remember Kristy as a beautiful, friendly, funny, compassionate soul who really enjoyed interacting with the students at school and on the field. Making a difference in their lives seemed of great importance to her. It was wonderful to have Kristy along on class retreats as well! She brought along much light and love."
— Mrs. Winnewisser

Kristy will always be a part of the Cardinal family.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, October 11, at Lions Park — 6197 Casitas Pass Rd, Carpinteria, CA 93013.