The University of Kentucky is deeply saddened by the passing of one of its own, Kate Kaufling, a lively sophomore and member of the Kentucky Wildcats Dance Team, who lost her life at the age of 20 after bravely fighting bone cancer.
In an official statement from University of Kentucky Athletics, the unexpected loss of Kate Kaufling was announced, causing profound shock within the campus community. Coach Dawn Walters, with a heavy heart, fondly recollected Kate’s vibrant spirit, portraying her as a source of joy within the team.
Walters warmly reminisced about Kate, describing her as a joy to coach and be around. He noted that her radiant smile could brighten any room and that she was cherished by all her UKDT teammates. Expressing the team’s sadness over Kate’s passing, he highlighted her courageous battle with osteosarcoma over the past year, praising her bravery and resilience until the very end. He concluded by expressing the team’s thoughts, prayers, and love for the Kaufling family.
College sophomore and Kentucky Wildcats Dance Team Member Kate Kaufling has died following a battle with bone cancer, University of Kentucky Athletics announced.
Kaufling was 20. https://t.co/VaQcsqi3KY
— ABC News (@ABC) April 3, 2024
Kate Kaufling, known for her dedication to dance and her aspirations to become a nurse, demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite undergoing cancer treatments, she remained steadfast in her studies, earning admiration and respect from both her peers and mentors.
Sandy Bell, the executive associate athletics director at UK, praised Kate for her unwavering dedication to her education, describing her as an “amazing student” whose resilient spirit made a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
“Even while undergoing cancer treatments, Kate maintained her commitment to her studies, serving as an inspiring role model for her peers,” Bell noted. “Kate was cherished by all who crossed paths with her, and her absence will be deeply felt. On behalf of UK Athletics, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Holly, Steve, Abbey, and the entire Kaufling family.”
Osteosarcoma, the rare and aggressive bone cancer that took Kate’s life, usually affects teenagers and young adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, osteosarcoma accounts for about 5% of all childhood cancers. The National Cancer Institute notes that certain risk factors contribute to development, including genetic predisposition and past exposure to chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Symptoms of osteosarcoma, such as joint pain and unexplained bone fractures, often go unnoticed until the disease is advanced. Diagnosis usually involves a combination of imaging tests and biopsy procedures. From surgery to chemotherapy to radiation therapy, treatment options are tailored to each patient’s unique situation. Following Kate’s death, the University of Kentucky community has come together to mourn and honor her memory as a valued member of the Wildcats family. Kate’s legacy of her resilience and her fortitude serve as a lasting inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Kate has a deep sisterhood with her loving parents, Holly and Steve, who also share her passion for dance as a member of the Wildcats dance team in her sophomore year. She is survived by her twin sister Abby. As the University of Kentucky mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, Kate’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched and her grace, courage and unwavering determination will be forever remembered. Probably.
