of University of Kentucky We are mourning the loss of dance team member Kate Kaufling, who passed away on Sunday, less than a year after being diagnosed with bone cancer. She was only 20 years old.
The university announced Kaufling’s untimely death on Monday.According to a news release, she I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma.
University of Kentucky Logo on December 17, 2022. (Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
UK Dance Team head coach Dawn Walters said in a statement: “Kate was a joy to coach and be around. Her smile could light up a room and she was loved by all of her UKDT team-mates. “It had been done,” he said.
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“We are all saddened by Kate’s death. We remember the tough battle she fought against osteosarcoma over the past year. She was brave to the end. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with the Kaufling family. ”
Kaufling was diagnosed with cancer on June 2 after “several lumps and swollen lymph nodes” were discovered, according to the GoFundMe fundraising site.
Osteosarcoma is the most common type bone cancer According to the American Cancer Society, the disease is usually diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults, but it can develop at any age.
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“In addition to being a talented dancer, Kate was also an outstanding student who took her studies very seriously in the College of Nursing,” UK Executive Associate Athletic Director Sandy Bell said in a statement. .
A Kentucky flag waves after a Wildcats touchdown at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Louisville. (Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“Even through cancer treatment, Kate continued to learn and set a great example for her teammates. Kate was loved by all who knew her and will be deeply missed. On behalf of Great Britain Athletics, we send our sincere condolences to Holly, Steve, Abbie and the entire Kaufling family. ”
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The Kentucky Wildcats perform during a game against the Marshall Thundering Herd at Rupp Arena in Lexington on November 24, 2023. (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Kaufling joined Kentucky’s dance team in September with her twin sister, Abby.
She is survived by her parents, Holly Kaufling and Steve Kaufling, and a twin sister.
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