Sophie's Story

Sophie was diagnosed at age 10 with synovial sarcoma, an aggressive soft tissue cancer above her left knee. She endured years of specialist visits, surgeries, and treatments with significant side effects. By 2013, doctors determined amputation above the left knee was necessary.

Following amputation, Sophie mastered her prosthetic leg through dedicated physical therapy and returned to running. She maintained her studies and graduated from Central Bucks South High School with strong grades and a commitment to helping others with disabilities.

A Voice for Others

Sophie was accepted to Temple University to study social work, driven by her desire to serve communities and individuals with disabilities. She advocated for accessibility improvements, particularly wheelchair-accessible sidewalks, and worked to increase empathy and community support.

The cancer eventually metastasized to her lungs. After a 10-year battle, Sophie passed away just five days after turning 21.

On her 21st birthday, Sophie requested that birthday gifts be donated to the Sarcoma Foundation. Her family and friends honored this wish by participating in “Race to Cure” as “Team Sophie” in 2018, raising approximately $10,000.

Silken Twine

Beginning in February 2015, Sophie documented her experiences under the tag “Silken Twine,” inspired by William Blake's poem. She candidly journaled about treatments, femininity, friendships, and coming of age. Sophie explained: “There's something good to be found in every hardship” and that “finding those silken twines…helps me get through the day.”

“Under every grief & pine / Runs a joy with silken twine”

— William Blake, “Auguries of Innocence”

Sophie's Legacy Lives On

The Silken Twine Charity was established to honor Sophie's memory and provide solace to families of children and young adults with cancer, continuing the work she began.