At just 11 years old, while undergoing treatment for T-cell leukemia during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sam turned his personal struggle into a movement of compassion and action. After months in the hospital, he saw firsthand how many young patients spent long, lonely days without family by their side—an experience that inspired him to found Sam’s Warriors in 2021. His vision: to ensure that no child or family faces illness alone.

Since then, Sam has raised more than $110,000 to support families at Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD), where he continues to serve as an ambassador and volunteer. Through his creativity and leadership—including the viral Pie Face Challenge— Sam has inspired countless others, from classmates to strangers, to join in acts of service. His fund, now an endowment, has already supported over 100 families and his long-term goal is to create a dedicated family center providing child care and counseling for siblings of long-term patients.

Despite ongoing health challenges, including multiple surgeries and continued treatments, Sam’s gratitude and resilience shine through in all he does. He speaks at schools and community events, serves as an intern in CHKD’s philanthropy office, and is helping to lead a new student service council at his school.

Sam’s story is one of courage, empathy, and leadership—a reminder that even in the face of hardship, one person’s compassion can light the way for an entire community.