Tragic Sophie’s story inspires better care

A COLERAINE girl’s courageous battle with a rare form of bone cancer has highlighted the urgent need for better support for sarcoma patients across Northern Ireland.
Sophie Mathewson, who died peacefully at home on 16 April 2021 aged just 18, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma just days after completing her GCSEs in June 2019.
Her treatment journey was intense, involving multiple surgeries, six cycles of chemotherapy and more than 100 nights in hospital.
Despite the challenges, Sophie achieved seven grade A’s in her GCSEs, rang the bell to finish chemotherapy in January 2020, and celebrated her 18th birthday with her twin sister Diana.
Following her death, Sophie’s parents, Katy and Allen, have worked with the Boom Foundation and the Trauma and Orthopaedic Research Charity (TORC) to create a lasting legacy - funding a dedicated Clinical Nurse Specialist for sarcoma patients.

And a fundraising gala will be held to raise funds for the post in the Lodge Hotel in Coleraine on Saturday, November 8.

For the full poignant story see this week's edition of the Coleraine Chronicle