April 23, 2018 1.57 pm This story is over 71 months old

Sophie’s legacy: New caravan offers respite to children with cancer

A wonderful tribute to a brave little lady.

Ben Robinson and Stacy Southwell, founders of the charity outside the new caravan in Mablethorpe.

A charity set up in memory of a brave Lincoln girl who died from cancer has celebrated the opening of a new caravan which gives families some time away from the hospital.

Sophie’s Journey was created for Sophie Robinson, who died at the age of 12 in 2016 after a two year battle with a medulloblastoma – a cancerous brain tumour.

Throughout her treatment, Sophie and her family had inspired and comforted others by documenting her experiences on social media.

Sophie Robinson lost her battle with cancer at the age of 12.

The £50,000 accommodation is the second to be opened by the charity at Golden Sands Holiday Park on Sunday, April 22 and can cater for children who have extra mobility needs.

It has full wet room facilities and is wheelchair accessible.

Sophie’s mum Stacy Southwell runs the charity in her spare time to fulfil a promise to her daughter to improve the lives of children going through a similar experience.

The caravan is equipped with a wet room, wheelchair access and hoist facilities.

Stacy said: “We opened our first caravan in March 2017 so families like ours can have the same opportunity we had to enjoy a holiday and create special memories together.

“The caravan is hugely popular, but unfortunately it isn’t suitable for children who struggle with mobility as a result of the gruelling treatment they receive following a cancer diagnosis.

“It goes without saying that we’re keen to help as many families as we can, so we began fundraising for a second caravan that would be specially adapted.

Inspired by brave Lincoln girl Sophie.

“It was heartbreaking having to turn people down if we weren’t able to cater for their child’s needs, but it’s thanks to the generosity of our supporters that we no longer have to.

“We rely on donations and we’re so grateful for any help the public can offer to maintain both caravans and ensure our families have the best break possible.”

The Sophie’s Journey caravan is available from March until October and Stacy added the family have contacted the people they weren’t previously able to help.

Anyone who is supporting a child living with cancer, or has lost a child to cancer, and would like to apply for a holiday courtesy of Sophie’s Journey, can get in touch via the charity’s Facebook page here.