From an early age Sophie turned compassion into action. At thirteen she began dedicating her time and energy to fundraising that helps people who live with anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction triggered by foods like peanuts, bee stings, and other allergens. Her story shows that a single voice can spark a larger movement when someone takes the initiative, maps out a plan, and brings others along. She has watched a small idea grow into a community effort that reaches schools, families, and neighbors across Canada and the United States. The following pages share her reflections on what motivates her cause and the real difference it has made in the people she serves, and in the volunteers who joined her along the way.
Why did she choose this cause? It came from a place of personal connection. Her whole family is affected by anaphylaxis, including Sophie herself, and that personal link makes the mission feel urgent and important. She saw how dangerous and unpredictable allergic reactions can be, and she wanted to turn fear into hope by building a platform where people can learn, prepare, and donate to help others stay safe and healthy.
How did the Walk to Axe Anaphylaxis come about? The idea took shape when Sophie wanted to mark her thirteenth birthday with a project that would do more than celebrate. She looked at fundraising walks that had raised significant sums and real community spirit, and she decided to start her own event. The Walk became a way to honor the milestone while turning curiosity and energy into a lasting effort that could grow year after year with the help of volunteers, sponsors, and families who care about food allergies.
If a celebrity could attend the Walk, who would she pick? Sophie would choose Justin Bieber. The notion of a well known personality joining a local event adds a spark of excitement and visibility that can help attract more participants, raise more funds, and remind people that small acts can attract big attention. It is a reminder that the effort is big enough to engage people from all walks of life, not just those directly affected by allergies.
What is the hardest thing about living with food allergies? The toughest part is asking about ingredients. When a person grows older and wants to join friends for lunch or dinner, the constant check becomes a regular part of life. It requires vigilance about every ingredient, the risk of hidden allergens, and the possibility of cross contact. That constant vigilance can wear on social experiences, but it also shows how resilience and careful planning can enable normal, everyday activities with the right precautions.
What about snacks? Sophie is allergic to peanuts and almonds, but not every tree nut, so she tends to choose items that are safe and trusted. Her favorites include Nutella, because she is not allergic to all tree nuts, and she tends to enjoy anything that is safe for her to eat. She is not a picky eater and will try anything that is safe for her to eat, a reminder that a safe and varied diet is possible for people who have to avoid certain nuts.
What is the goal to be raised for this year? The focus is to surpass last year’s total, which reached $70,000. Every dollar matters, and every bit of support helps families living with allergies, raising awareness and funding for research, education, and safer products. The ongoing effort shows that steady, community driven fundraising can create real change, and the enthusiasm of participants continues to grow year after year.
What would you say to others who want to make a difference? The message is simple: making a difference doesn’t require grand plans. Small acts of generosity can accumulate into large impact if people contribute more than they receive, and consistent small steps add up over time. The idea is to encourage others to start with something manageable, then build on it with friends, school groups, and local businesses, turning a spark into lasting momentum.
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