Sophia Claire Bendes was a sweet, silly, happy, and loving little girl.  She lived every day of her life full of love and joy.  She always loved to make everyone happy.  She loved to see those she knew, and even those she didn’t, smile.  

Sophia loved her kitties, Frozen, crafting, stickers, ice cream with sprinkles, flowers, and most of all, her family.

On August 30, 2019, nine days after her fourth birthday, Sophia was diagnosed with DIPG.  DIPG is a rare inoperable tumor on the brain stem, affecting 150-300 children in the U.S. every year, with an overall survival rate of 1%.  Sophia fought bravely and fiercely for 10 1/2 months, without ever losing her spirit.  Our precious girl ran into the arms of Jesus on July 17, 2020. 

Today, and every day going forward, we live and love like Sophia.  We will continue to honor our girl by hosting events to raise awareness and funds for DIPG research so that we may make a difference and change "the after" for other DIPG children and their families.  

Thank you for choosing to donate to The Cure Starts Now Foundation. 100% of this donation, after credit card processing fees, goes directly towards research to find the homerun cure for cancer starting with pediatric brain cancer research.

If you would like to make a donation by mail please send a check to:  The Cure Starts Now Foundation; 10280 Chester Road; Cincinnati, OH 45215 and put the child's name in the memo.

The family receives notification of all donations made to this tribute fund automatically.