Tragically, beloved student dancer Kate Kaufling died of bone cancer at the young age of 20. This is devastating news. The dance team and campus community were devastated to learn of the tragic news, which was released through a press statement from University of Kentucky Athletics. Many who had the honor of knowing Kate were moved by her narrative of tenacity, fortitude, and inspiration.
Kate’s Story

Source: University of Kentucky Dance Team
Kate Kaufling was a bright light both on and off the dance floor. She is a student at the University of Kentucky studying nursing. She was a devoted member of the Kentucky Wildcats Dance Team and well-known for her radiant demeanor and contagious grin. Kate was a joy to be around and exuded a contagious happy spirit.
The young dancer was a committed learner as well. In order to help people the way her nurses had helped her, she started pursuing her nursing degree. Sadly, on Sunday, March 31, 2024, she lost her fight with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. She was barely twenty years old. Her twin sister Abbey and her parents both survive her.
Loved by Many

Source: University of Kentucky Dance Team
The head coach of the Wildcats Dance Team, Coach Dawn Walters, shared her respect and sorrow for Kate by saying, “Kate was a joy to coach and to be around.” All of her UKDT teammates adored her, and her grin could brighten any space. Kate’s influence went beyond her teammates; her generosity, compassion, and unfailing spirit touched many people’s lives.
Kate was hailed by Sandy Bell, the university’s executive assistant athletics director, as a “amazing student” who shown perseverance and determination. Kate inspired her teammates and set a great example for others by continuing to pursue her education despite receiving cancer treatments.
Understanding Osteosarcoma
Kate battled osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Osteosarcoma occurs when a tumor develops in the new tissue of growing bones. According to the American Cancer Society, bone cancers like osteosarcoma account for approximately 5% of all childhood cancers. Osteosarcoma is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults between the ages of 10 and 25. It can occur in any bone, but it’s most often found in the long bones of the arms and legs. Osteosarcoma is a very aggressive cancer that spreads quickly to other parts of the body if not treated early enough. It more often affects Caucasian children than African American or Hispanic children.
Signs and Symptoms of Osteosarcoma
Some common signs and symptoms of osteosarcoma include persistent joint pain, swelling above a bone or bony part of the body, and unexplained broken bones. These symptoms may initially be mistaken for other conditions or injuries, making early detection challenging. If you or your child has any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away. The earlier osteosarcoma is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.
Treatment Options
Diagnosing osteosarcoma typically involves imaging tests and a biopsy. The treatment options for osteosarcoma depend on the patient’s prognosis and condition. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are common approaches used to combat this aggressive form of cancer.
Surgery is the most common treatment for osteosarcoma. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving function and appearance. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove part or all of an affected bone. Chemotherapy is often used before surgery to shrink tumors and make them easier to remove. After surgery, additional chemotherapy may be given to kill any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy may also be used to treat osteosarcoma that has spread beyond its original site.
RIP Kate Kaufling
The loss of Kate Kaufling at such a young age is a devastating blow to her family, friends, dance team, and the entire University of Kentucky community. Kate will be remembered for her strength, courage, and unwavering determination throughout her battle with osteosarcoma.
Through her journey, Kate has left an indelible mark, inspiring and touching the hearts of those who knew her. Her legacy will live on, reminding us all to cherish our health, embrace life’s joys, and never take a single moment for granted.
Our deepest condolences go out to Kate’s parents, Holly and Steve, and her twin sister, Abbey, who also dances on the Wildcats Dance Team. May they find comfort and strength during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Kate Kaufling. You will be forever missed.