Kate Kaufling.Photo:Eddie Justice | UK Athletics
Eddie Justice | UK Athletics
A University of Kentucky dancer has died at age 20 following a battle with bone cancer, the university’s athletic department announced.
Kate Kaufling, a college sophomore who joined the dance team with her twin sister Abbey in the fall, was diagnosed with a common bone cancer calledosteosarcomain June 2023 after noticing a few lumps and swollen lymph nodes, according to aGoFundMepage. Osteosarcoma usually affects teenagers and starts in areas where the bone grows quickly, such as the end of the leg, according to theAmerican Cancer Society.
Kaufling died on Sunday from the disease, just three months after finishing chemotherapy.
Kate Kaufling.GoFundMe
GoFundMe
“As heartbroken as I am right now, I can say I have the best guardian angel in all of heaven. I can’t wait to squeeze you forever again one day. you and me forever kate❤️,” Abbey wrote.
Kate Kaufling.Grant Lee | UK Athletics
Grant Lee | UK Athletics
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In her finalInstagrampost, Kaufling shared a video of herself ringing the bell alongside her loved ones while celebrating the end of her chemotherapy treatments.
“Cancer is a curse I wish on no human being, but it did change my outlook on life,” she continued. “Hold on to your loved ones as long as you can. Those hugs might be the only thing making them feel safe right now. Embrace your friends who treat you no differently because you’re ill. Thank God everyday for everything around you. Today I’m proud to share I’m officially done with chemotherapy and ready for a better chapter of my life to begin.”
source: people.com
