On the morning of November 18th, 2023, our lives were changed forever when we tragically lost our daughter Sophia to complications from Type 1 diabetes while she was sleeping. Although she had battled Type 1 diabetes since her diagnosis at 13 years old, losing her was the last thing on our minds when we kissed her goodnight.  Type 1 diabetes is a silent killer. There were no signs of any major health problems the day before. She took her morning walk just like she did every day. See, that is the scary thing about diabetes, you just don't know when or how it will attack your loved ones. Once your child is diagnosed it turns a normal child's life into one of constant worrying and nonstop blood checks and monitoring everything from food intake to insulin levels. Just when you think you have it under control, a tragedy that no parent should have to deal with can shatter your world. 

  

Our daughter Sophia was born on April 15, 2000, in Dacula Georgia. The third and youngest of our girls. She thrived and was a beautiful baby and was loved and doted on by her older sisters Alexa and Nicole. She was our baby girl and so adored by my wife Neisha and me.  

  

Sophia was an amazing daughter who loved life. She loved her family, her college roommates, her teammates, and all animals, especially dogs. She never complained about her diabetes. She loved playing sports and was a great Lacrosse and track star. She loved to travel. Loved the North Carolina mountains, Brevard and exploring. Her love for music was unique, enjoying many classic artists. Despite her battle with diabetes, she eventually moved away from home and successfully graduated from the University of Georgia with a BA in Communication Studies.  Sophia had just landed a job and was so excited to be starting a new chapter of her life. Then our world came crumbling down when we went into her room to let her beloved dog, Koda, out. 

  

There are no words to describe what it is like to lose a child. There are days when we wake up and hope it didn’t happen, and it was all a bad dream. How do you go on with your own life when a piece of your heart has been ripped out and taken away? 

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We know that our daughter loved helping others, she wouldn’t want everyone to stop living. She had a personality and demeanor that would connect with anyone she met. Always helping the underdog and those less fortunate. A shining light that all observed. She also loved volunteering at a special camp called Camp Kudzu, which is a camp specifically for kids who are battling Type 1 diabetes. 

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As a tribute to Sophia, we have created the Sophia Ruggieri Memorial Foundation to help fight Type 1 Diabetes.  Sophia's love for life was immeasurable, and it's heartwarming to see how her legacy continues to help others. We are honored to be a part this effort and to be making a positive impact in her name.