10-year-old Sophia Weaver who was viciously attacked by trolls online because of her appearance passed away.
The little girl died of complications related to Rett syndrome, a genetic brain disorder that causes problems with coordination, language, and repetitive movements. It was her mother Natalie who announced her death.
Natalie wrote on Twitter: “Our #SweetSophia left this earth last night as she spent every day of her life, surrounded by love & adoration. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to sophias-voice.com.
“Once we pull ourselves from this shattering pain we will continue to help others in her memory.”
Symptoms of Rett syndrome include a decline of language and social skills, slowed brain growth, problems using hands and walking, and difficulty breathing.
The condition becomes apparent after 6 to 18 months and mostly affects girls.
In February, her family decided to put her in hospice care after she had to undergo multiple surgeries. Weaver wrote on February 20: “This last surgery made it clear to us that Sophia’s body is tired and we always said we would listen to what her body is telling us and respect that, no matter how hard it is for us.”
Sophia underwent at least 20 surgeries in her short life. She had a colostomy bag and a feeding tube and needed 24-hour care.
The girl’s mother is the founder of Sophia’s Voice, a non-profit group that helps people with disabilities and chronic illnesses obtain medical needs.
It was in January when Sophia became the center of a social media storm when someone used her photo to push abortion.
Natalie defended her daughter, whose appearance made her a target of hateful comments and stares. She also criticized Twitter and its regulations after she saw a poster with Sophia’s picture to promote abortion.
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