Sophia Forchas, the 12-year-old girl most critically injured in the August 27th shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, has been released from the hospital. Her parents, Amy and Thomas Forchas, described her release on October 23rd as one of the most extraordinary days of their lives.

The shooting occurred during morning Mass, killing an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old child. Twenty-one other people, including 18 children, were wounded in the attack. Sophia was the most seriously injured of the survivors.

In a statement, Sophia’s parents expressed their profound gratitude to every individual involved in her medical care. They thanked the medical teams from the depths of their hearts for their world-class commitment, which they said carried the family through the ordeal.

While celebrating her homecoming, the family acknowledged that Sophia’s recovery journey is ongoing. She will continue with outpatient therapy. Yet, they are filled with joy witnessing her daily progress, including improved speech, the return of her personality, and her ability to walk, swim, and dribble a basketball.

Amid their joy, the Forchas family’s hearts remain tender for the other victims. They continue to pray for those who lost their lives and hold close those who were injured and bear lasting scars from the tragic event.

Following her release, Sophia visited the hospital where she was initially treated. Medical staff celebrated her with “Sophia Strong” banners. She then rode in a limousine with a police escort led by Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara.

The community’s support has been immense. A GoFundMe campaign established to aid Sophia’s recovery has raised more than $1 million to support her long road ahead.