A dancing teenager who has inspired so many with her brave battle against cancer has succumbed to the horrific disease.
Kate Campa, from Yuma, Phoenix, was first diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in 2018 when she was 14 years old.
She experienced a “sudden and crushing” pain in her back and shortly after doctors discovered the mass, a rare cancerous tumor that lodges in the bones or surrounding soft tissue.
“It was shocking,” said her mother, as per Phoenix Children’s Foundation. “It’s the most awful thing in the world to hear your child has cancer.”
The tumor had spread so much, it was inoperable.
“She cried when she found out she would lose her hair, but she also faced it with the same competitive spirit she’d always channeled throughout her life.”
She endured 12 rounds of chemotherapy and still faced further proton beam therapy which left her skin raw and red.
The teenager went from dancing 15 hours a week to not dancing at all, but this determined young woman faced everything with positivity, even setting up her own YouTube channel to keep her mind occupied.
“I’m bald; and it is what it is; with or without make-up I still feel beautiful,” she said, as per Phoenix Children’s Foundation.
Kate went into remission in 2019, but on her 16th birthday she relapsed.
Her Facebook page Team Kate, which has over 7,000 followers, posted a heartbreaking announcement this week.
“Our Kate is dancing with the angels. She can now do ALL things through Christ who strengthens her. Please God, take care of our girl. We know she is going to light up Heaven with that beautiful smile.
“Please join us in prayers for peace and comfort for Lili, Alfredo, her family and friends as they are feeling an indescribable loss. Kate changed our lives and will continue to do so for many years to come. We love you all! May God bless you sweet Kate.”
Less than a day before the tragic announcement a post thanked people for their prayers and words of encouragement.
“This young lady has spent 22 months not only fighting for her life but teaching us all about what matters most in life- our lives continue to be changed by her relentless spirit, her unfaltering determination and her love for life. We love you Kate Campa!”
Your bravery and determination to fight this horrific disease will never be forgotten, as will your spirit and energy. Rest in peace Kate.
My heart goes out to her family and friends. Please share to pay tribute to Kate.