MINNEAPOLIS — In a heartwarming tale of resilience, 12-year-old Sophia Forchas, who was critically injured in a recent shooting at a Minneapolis church, is making significant progress in her recovery. Just weeks after suffering a gunshot wound to the head, Sophia has transitioned from acute care to an inpatient rehabilitation program, as confirmed by her family.
During the violent incident, which took place while Sophia and her classmates at Annunciation Catholic School were attending their first Mass of the new school year, a shooter opened fire, tragically claiming the lives of two students and injuring 21 others. The assailant later died by suicide. Notably, Sophia's mother, who works as a nurse at Hennepin Healthcare, was unaware that her daughter had been shot until she arrived at the hospital to assist in treating the victims.
Sophia underwent emergency surgery due to the severity of her injuries. According to her neurosurgeon, Dr. Walt Galicich, a bullet had become lodged in her brain, leading to critical damage, particularly to a major blood vessel. Surgeons were compelled to remove the left half of her skull to alleviate pressure on her brain.
Despite the grim circumstances at the onset, her family now shares that Sophia displays signs of neurological recovery, and they continue to have cautious optimism for her future. In a heartfelt statement, they described Sophia as strong, brave, and unwavering in her fight toward healing, requesting prayers for her journey ahead.
Though she still faces numerous challenges ahead as she embarks on a lengthy and intensive rehabilitation route, Sophia's resilience serves as a beacon of hope for those surrounding her.
