Be Loud! Sophie Foundation

Andrew "Smitty" Smitherman, medical director, and Lauren Lux, AYA program director

Be Loud! Sophie Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting adolescent and young adult cancer patients and their families. The foundation focuses on ensuring that these patients receive care that addresses not only their physical health but also their emotional, social, and educational needs. It was established in honor of Sophie Steiner, a vibrant teenager who lost her battle with cancer. The foundation's mission is inspired by Sophie's spirit and her belief in the importance of being loud about one's needs, dreams, and the impact of cancer on young lives.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Be Loud! Sophie Foundation is to advocate for and support the unique needs of adolescents and young adults with cancer. The foundation envisions a world where young cancer patients receive holistic care that acknowledges their specific developmental needs, helping them to not only survive but thrive during and after treatment.

History

The Be Loud! Sophie Foundation was founded after the untimely death of Sophie Steiner, a teenager who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Throughout her journey, Sophie demonstrated incredible courage and a zest for life, inspiring those around her. Recognizing the gap in care and support for adolescents and young adults facing cancer, Sophie's family and friends established the foundation to continue her legacy of making noise and advocating for better care and support for young patients.

Programs and Initiatives

The foundation implements various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting young cancer patients. These include:

• Advocacy for Age-Appropriate Care: Working with healthcare providers and institutions to ensure that the unique needs of adolescent and young adult patients are met.
• Support Services: Offering resources and support services tailored to young patients and their families, including counseling, educational support, and social activities.
• Awareness and Education: Raising awareness about the specific challenges faced by young people with cancer and promoting education on how to address these challenges effectively.

Impact

The Be Loud! Sophie Foundation has made significant strides in improving the care and support available to adolescent and young adult cancer patients. Through its advocacy and programs, the foundation has helped to bring attention to the unique needs of this age group, leading to more personalized and comprehensive care approaches.

How to Support

Individuals and organizations can support the Be Loud! Sophie Foundation through donations, volunteering, and participating in foundation events. Contributions go towards funding the foundation's programs and initiatives, helping to make a difference in the lives of young cancer patients and their families.

See Also

• Cancer support group
• Adolescent health
• Non-profit organization