Childhood cancer

Riverside vigil for Sophia Randell and family

In palliative care, seven-year-old Sophia Randell knew there was a loving gathering in her honour January 25. As night fell and the heavy snow would not allow for lanterns to be set off, the some 45 people gathered lit candles instead. 

Sophia’s mother and two siblings where surrounded by love and song, with Sophia’s favourites playing from a cell phone. A prayer was said and words of fortitude for the family where shared in a multi-denominational way. Some stories were shared of Sophia and for the family. Before ending with a massive group hug, the gathered held a long moment of silence, followed by filming a video for Sophia to see. A Vigil of Strength was held at the Grotto of Notre Dame de Lourdes in Ottawa, January 18.