Glow for Soph

We're raising as much as we can to beat cancer

Story

In Loving Memory of Sophie: A Life That Shone Brightly Sophie was the kind of friend who had you laughing from the moment she arrived. Never one to take herself too seriously, always wanting to have fun and brightening up every room she was in. Sophie left a mark on the hearts of everyone she met. Whether it was her infectious sense of humor, her generous spirit, or the way she could make even the darkest days feel brighter. Sophie was an inspiration to everyone, she faced some really difficult challenges but would never moan, she would get up each day ready to face the challenge ahead. Sophie’s laughter was contagious, her energy endless, and her kindness boundless. She had a unique ability to lift others up, to make them forget their worries, and to remind them that life was worth celebrating. No matter what challenges came her way, she approached life with a smile — always ready to crack a joke, share a laugh, or offer a word of encouragement. She was the life of every gathering, the friend you could always count on for a good laugh, and the person you turned to for support. Tragically, Sophie was taken from us too soon. A sudden and unexpected battle with cancer claimed her life, leaving a void that can never be filled. The world lost not just a friend, but a soul who touched everyone she met with her infectious spirit and kind soul. As we come to terms with this unimaginable loss, we want to honour Sophie’s memory by raising funds for cancer research. In honour of our beautiful Soph we will be completing race for life whilst dressed in our glow sticks! So, you might be wondering why our team is called Glow for Soph. Well, sit tight, because this name isn’t just a tribute—it’s a glowing homage to one unforgettable night that lives rent-free in our memories. Flashback to 2017: we’re at Sarah and Chris’s wedding. The vibes? Immaculate. The prosecco? Flowing. The first dance had just ended and we were all gathered at our table, doing what we do best—chit-chatting, people-watching, and occasionally judging questionable dance moves. We turned to Soph, who was happily bopping along in her chair at the back of the table. All was normal—until the lights dimmed for ambience… and suddenly, Sophie lit up. Literally. She turned neon green. We’re talking full-blown radioactive rave chic. Imagine the 80s version of the Incredible Hulk, but with a killer dress and a fascinator. We burst out laughing—tears rolling, drinks nearly snorted. Soph, bless her, looked around in total confusion, glowing like a Vegas billboard, utterly baffled as to why we were howling like hyenas. It turned out that while the rest of us were innocently enjoying the reception, Soph had entered her Curious George era. Left alone with a candle and a glow stick (you know, those innocent little tubes of fun meant for children), she wondered aloud: “Hmm… what happens if I hold this glow stick over the candle?” Spoiler alert: it explodes. Yes. Explodes. In a mist of neon green goo. Cue us rushing Soph to the toilets, all the while other guests stared like we’d brought a human highlighter to the party. We spent a solid hour in the ladies’ room, armed with nothing but hand flannels and helpless laughter, trying to de-glow our beloved friend. Needless to say, Soph never mixed glow sticks and open flames again—but she did gift us one of the greatest stories of all time. So now, when we run this Race for Life, we do it as Glow for Soph—because if anyone could light up a room (or a wedding), it was her. We ask for everyone’s help by donating whatever you are able in honour of the beautiful soul we have lost. Cancer is happening right now, which is why I'm taking part in a Race for Life 5k to raise money and save lives. 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Every single pound you donate makes a difference to Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work, so please sponsor me now.