SENIOR SCHOOL
Sock it to
In March 2014 my son, Mitchell Ainsworth
(11Sc) discovered a sore lump on his left
femur, which we naturally assumed was a
sports injury. We soon found out, however,
that it was something far more sinister.
Mitchell was diagnosed with a rare form of
bone cancer, Osteosarcoma, and the fight for
his life was on.
Mitchell’s battle led him through a gruelling
nine months of treatment, including 18
rounds of chemotherapy and limb salvage
surgery, which removed 20cm of bone,
including his knee. From the onset Mitch’s
mentor group banded together to support
him. They all shaved their heads just after
his first dose of chemotherapy. Whenever
he could, Mitchell returned to school to be
Sarcoma
The ride challenge was 200km over two days –
1032 riders raising $4.5 million.
amongst his mates and give his morale a
much needed boost. He was determined to
stay with his year group and hold on to his
academic goals.
Throughout the journey I was introduced to
Mandy Basson from Sock It to Sarcoma and
the many wonderful people who support this
charity. Mitch’s orthopaedic team ride each
year and we decided we would like to be a
part of the ride and help support awareness
and much needed research to find a cure.
Mitch came up with the idea of having an
‘Odd Socks’ day at school, as this is the
signature symbol for promoting the charity
due to the fact that many of those diagnosed
with sarcoma often need limb salvage surgery
or amputation. The School House YX\