In Memory of Steph Smith
This page remembers Steph Smith and honours the awareness and fundraising work undertaken by her family and partner following her death from invasive aspergillosis in 2009.
Portrait of Steph Smith by her mother, Liz Smith.
Steph Smith was a much-loved daughter, partner, friend and aspiring primary school teacher. In 2009, at the age of 21, she died from invasive aspergillosis following a rapid and devastating illness.
Steph had been completing the final placement of her primary teaching degree when she became unwell. At first, her symptoms were thought to be linked to her asthma. Her breathing then deteriorated quickly and she was admitted to hospital, where she was diagnosed with invasive aspergillosis.
Invasive aspergillosis is a serious fungal infection that can develop rapidly in some people. Steph’s family shared her story to raise awareness of the condition, the importance of recognising severe and worsening symptoms, and the need for better diagnosis and treatment.
Remembering Steph
Steph had worked hard for four years towards her degree in Primary Education. She was looking forward to a career for which she was well suited: caring, thoughtful, energetic and gifted with children.
She had a lifelong love of dance and was an accomplished Highland and ballet dancer. She had been involved with Girlguiding, school music and local community activities, and was remembered by those who knew her for her warmth, generosity and unmistakable smile.
Her asthma had never prevented her from living an active, full life. Her family remember a vibrant young woman for whom “no” was never part of her vocabulary, and who had so much still to look forward to.
A degree awarded in Steph’s honour
On 7 July 2009, Steph’s family attended a private graduation ceremony at the University of Aberdeen. They were presented with her degree, a Bachelor of Education (Aegrotat) in Primary Teaching, awarded in her honour.
Awareness and fundraising
Following Steph’s death, her family and partner raised more than £10,000 to support research into earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment for aspergillosis. Their efforts were an extraordinary tribute to Steph and to the hope that other families might be spared a similar loss.
We remain grateful to Steph’s family for allowing her story to be shared. Steph’s life, and the love and determination of those closest to her, continue to be remembered.
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