This is our niece, ‘Super Sophia’, who back in April - when she was just 2 years old - was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).

She’s being treated at the wonderful Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and so this year, to say a great big thank you for everything they’re doing for Sophia, we’re taking part in the 5K Liverpool Santa Dash on 3rd December. 

A team of family and friends will be santa dashing - including Sophia’s cousins, Jacob and Phoebe, in the Liverpool Mini Dash. All members of ‘Team Super Sophia’ will use this team Just Giving page, so please, please support us in our mission and give what you can! 

Super Sophia’s story so far:

Within hours of Sophia’s devastating diagnosis earlier this year, she was taken to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, went to theatre and commenced chemotherapy.

At the time, Sophia’s mum and dad (my sister and brother in law) were in a state of shock and couldn’t comprehend what was happening. The Oncology team at Alder Hey were so compassionate, kind and understanding. They offered advice, support and the right level of information. 

The unit very quickly became a ‘safe space’ as their ‘normal world’ felt so far away. My sister didn’t leave Sophia’s side and not only were Sophia’s needs considered and met, so were my sister’s and brother in law’s. All the team took the time to get to know the whole family - they even knew all about Dillon the cat. 

Since treatment commenced Sophia has encountered a high number of hospital visits, overnight stays and even a very scary HDU stay with sepsis. Even though it’s clear the team are stretched, they are always approachable and no matter what we ask for, nothing ever appears to be an issue.

Most importantly, they understand Sophia - not just her clinical and physical needs - but her individual needs, her personality and experiences of a (now) 3 year old. The unit has an array of arts and craft activities, toys, games and of course Pip the play therapist, who Sophia loves.

Sophia will be receiving treatment until May 2025, and we are already so grateful to all the staff at Alder Hey. 

Please help us raise some money for this amazing hospital. Your support will help to enhance the clinical care and resources available to people who are going through some really challenging times. It will also support the hospital’s ongoing research of Leukaemia and other diseases, including their prevention.