Young Detective Sophie Moore Loses Battle with Rare Cancer

Detective Constable Sophie Moore, aged 29, passed away on February 26, 2024, after a courageous battle with a rare form of cancer. Diagnosed with peripheral T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2023, Sophie fought the aggressive illness for nearly three years. Her mother, Monica Moore, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, revealing that in her final days, Sophie chose to marry her partner and fellow police officer, Koryn.

Monica described the wedding as “the most beautiful rip your heart out ceremony we’ve had the privilege to be part of.” She highlighted Sophie’s strength and determination, stating, “Her greatest strength wasn’t just her courage – it was her heart.” Monica reflected on Sophie’s character, noting her deep empathy for others and her unwavering dedication to her work. “She was a deeply caring, super kind soul who dedicated her life to others,” Monica wrote, adding that Sophie was also known for her humor, intelligence, and culinary skills.

Sophie’s journey began with her diagnosis, which was met with an aggressive treatment plan. She underwent ten rounds of chemotherapy and two stem cell transplants, but the relentless nature of the illness prompted her family to seek further options. This led to the discovery of a promising CAR-T cell therapy available at the National University Hospital of Singapore, which had shown success in putting other blood cancer patients into remission. Unfortunately, the treatment came with a staggering cost of approximately $800,000.

To cover the expenses, Sophie’s family organized various fundraising efforts, including a concert and movie fundraiser in Gore, as well as a Givealittle page. These initiatives enabled Sophie and Koryn to travel to Singapore for four months of intensive treatment. By September 2023, there was hope as Sophie’s cancer entered remission, allowing the couple to return to New Zealand.

Tragically, the remission was short-lived. By February 2024, Sophie’s health took a turn for the worse. Monica recounted Koryn’s tireless efforts to secure medications and treatments for Sophie, underscoring the strength of their relationship. “Koryn is Sophie’s soul mate and her love and strength is incredible. We are so proud of the woman [Sophie] was and the lives she touched,” Monica expressed.

Sophie’s legacy is one of resilience and compassion. Her family has expressed their profound grief, stating, “Loving you changed our lives; it should come as no surprise that losing you has done the same.” A funeral service for Sophie Moore is scheduled to take place in Christchurch this Sunday, where family, friends, and colleagues will gather to honor her memory and celebrate her life.