Special to UM News

Photographer Sarah Moody, left, will ride in her third Dolphins Cancer Challenge for her sister, Claire, right, who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in 2012.

Sarah Moody has supported her younger sister, Claire, through every stage of her cancer journey. Now, Moody is readying to ride in her third Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC) on Saturday, February 20 to raise funds for Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

“I have participated in the DCC for the past three years, cycling the 30-mile route,” Moody said. “It’s a super-awesome experience to see the families whose lives have been affected by cancer.”

A graduate of Parsons School of Design in New York, Moody also sells her own photography and the works of other local artists for the Moody Fund for Cancer Research at Sylvester, which was established to help her sister. (See MaggieKnox.com for more information.)

Claire Moody was just 20 years old when she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in May 2012. A rare cancer of the bone, osteosarcoma occurs primarily in children and young adults, and only 800 cases a year are diagnosed in the U.S. The following month, Claire started treatment at Sylvester with a team led by Jonathan C. Trent, professor of medicine and co-director of the Musculoskeletal Center, Sarcoma Medical Research Program.

“After my sister was diagnosed, I moved from New York to Miami to be closer to her and our parents,” said Moody. “That fall I rode in my first DCC, raising $11,000 for research at Sylvester. She was being treated at the same time, so it was a very poignant experience for me.”

Claire came through her cancer treatment at Sylvester with flying colors.

“Dr. Trent saved her life, and we are very grateful for the care provided by the entire Sylvester team,” said Moody.

Unfortunately, Claire later suffered a recurrence that required several special surgeries and is taking part in a clinical trial for a new cancer drug.

“Now, I’m looking forward to my third ride in the DCC,” said Moody, noting that other options for DCC VI at Sun Life Stadium include a 5K walk and run and participating as a virtual rider. “I encourage everyone at the University of Miami to consider taking part in this important event and DCC with me.”

To learn more, visit Dolphins Cancer Challenge.