Sophie’s Wish: a haven for families facing childhood cancer
While undergoing intensive cancer treatment at the age of nine, Sophie Powell began imagining a special place for children with cancer and families like hers – somewhere they could escape hospital life, spend time together and make happy memories.
For Sophie, that place had to be the Isle of Wight, a location filled with treasured family holidays and the sense of adventure she loved so much.
Even during treatment, Sophie remained focused on helping others. Known for her kindness and determination, she began fundraising, planning events and dreaming about the difference she hoped to make for other children facing cancer.
When Sophie sadly passed away in 2017, aged just eleven, her family made a promise to continue her vision.
With support from family, friends and the local community, and working alongside The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust, Sophie’s Wish became a reality – a fully funded holiday lodge at Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park on the Isle of Wight for children with cancer and their families.
Today, Sophie’s Wish gives families something incredibly valuable: time together away from the pressures of treatment in a safe, welcoming environment designed around the realities of childhood cancer care. The lodge provides families with the chance to relax, reconnect and create precious memories together while remaining close enough to specialist support if needed.
Sophie’s family remain closely involved in caring for the lodge each year, ensuring every family receives a warm welcome and all the thoughtful touches that make Sophie’s Wish feel like home.
You can read the full article in this week’s News Shopper: HERE
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