4 hours ago
13
The University of Washington is mourning the loss of Mia Hamant after the women's soccer star died from cancer.
Hamant, a goalkeeper from Corte Madera, California, was diagnosed with a rare, Stage 4 kidney cancer in April and battled the disease for months.
Sadly, Washington's Athletics Department said on Thursday that Hamant, 21, had passed away - saying in the announcement that her 'legacy and spirit will forever remain a part of the University of Washington.
'Her heart, selflessness and resilience inspired everyone. Mia's courage, optimism and grace touched the lives of the entire Husky community. She will always serve as an inspiration for everyone whose life she was able to touch,' the announcement continued.
Hamant's head coach, Nicole Van Dyke, added that 'Mia was the heart of our program — someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness.
'Even in the most difficult moments, she showed an unshakable spirit that inspired her teammates and coaches every single day. Mia made us all better people, and her impact will be felt in this program and in all of our lives forever.'
University of Washington soccer star Mia Hamant has died at the age of 21 from cancer
Hamant previously announced that she was dealing with a rare form of kidney cancer
She was remembered by her head coach, Nicole Van Dyke, as the 'heart of our program'
Hamant excelled for Washington during her junior season, as she led the Big Ten with a save rate of 88.2 percent.
She previously told Washington's student paper, The Daily, that she went to the emergency room and underwent testing last spring after suffering from respiratory issues.
In May, she announced her diagnosis of Stage 4 SMARCB1-deficient kidney cancer on Instagram, as she posted a picture of her friends visiting her in the hospital.
'since then, my friends and family have pushed me to get through all the challenges that come with this diagnosis,' she wrote. 'while my normal life has been put on pause, i have been able to get better and start to feel like myself again.'
A GoFundMe created to support Hamant's fight against cancer has raised over $136k at the time of publishing.
In October, Hamant was seen in a wheelchair as she was invited to sound the siren at a Washington football game.
Hamant is survived by her parents, Candice and Kevin.
Washington said it will share details regarding a celebration of life for Hamant at a later time.
