Amelia De Smet

Climbing for Sophia

I’m taking part in the Kosi Challege to raise funds for Rare Cancers Australia (RCA). In March I’ll be climbing Mount Kosciuszko alongside hundreds of others to raise funds and awareness for people who are affected by rare and less common cancers. I’m climbing in memory of Sophia. 

Sophia was an adventurous, kind, bubbly and multitalented teenager who embraced everything life had to offer. She loved playing soccer, music, travelling and being with her family and friends. In 2015 Sophia was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive type of bone cancer. She had several operations, numerous rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, and countless overnight stays at the Royal Children’s Hospital. Sophia remained positive and enthusiastic throughout her three-year battle with osteosarcoma, and she documented her journey on social media to raise awareness for rare childhood cancers. In June 2018 Sophia passed away at the age of 16. 

Osteosarcoma mostly affects children, teenagers and young adults, and there has been little improvement to standard treatment in the last 40 years. RCA provides support for rare cancer patients and their families from a clinical, emotional and financial perspective. No one with a cancer diagnosis should have to walk alone.