At the young age of 20, Kate Kaufling, a lively dancer and committed student, lost her battle with bone cancer. The University of Kentucky is mourning the loss of one of its members.
Who was Kate Kaufling?
Kate Kaufling received the diagnosis of osteosarcoma in June 2023, a type of cancer commonly seen in teenagers. However, she refused to let this bring her down and instead confronted it with bravery and poise, embarking on a courageous journey.
The American Cancer Society reports that osteosarcoma primarily impacts adolescents and typically originates in regions of rapid bone development, such as the lower extremities.
Throughout her determined fight, Kate’s unwavering determination shone through, inspiring all those around her. As a member of the UK Dance Team and a dedicated student at the College of Nursing, Kate left a lasting impact on her fellow students and mentors.
Kate’s friends often referred to her as a “ray of sunshine,” noting her contagious grin that could brighten up any space she walked into. As a result, her teammates adored her and eagerly anticipated their training sessions with her.
Friends & Family Remember Kate Kaufling’s Legacy
Dawn Walters, head coach of the University of Kentucky Dance Team, spoke about the commitment and enthusiasm for dance that defined the late Kate’s character.
“Kate was a joy to coach and to be around. Her smile could light up a room and she was beloved by all of her UKDT teammates.”
He added,
“We are all saddened by Kate’s passing. We will remember her for the tough battle she fought with osteosarcoma over the past year. She was brave until the very end and all of us can draw inspiration from the courageous battle that she fought. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with the Kaufling family.”
Holly and Steve Kaufling, along with Abbey, are the surviving family members of Kaufling. In a heartfelt post on social media, Abbey expressed that her sister was her source of comfort and support, and life without her would be challenging as she was her closest companion. She wrote,
“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❤️.”
Kate Kaufling’s last Instagram post featured a video of her and her loved ones happily ringing a bell to mark the completion of her chemotherapy.
“2023 was by far not the year I had in mind. My plans of returning to UK with my best friends to dance and start nursing school had made a sharp unexpected turn. I had no choice but instead to spend the past 7 months undergoing an intense chemotherapy treatment full of many hospital stays. 7 months later I’m proud to say, “it’s over”.”
