Hope for Sam

Samuel Hunter Sturtevant, son of Kevin Sturtevant and Maureen McCrann Sturtevant, was born on October 16, 2013. A few short days after his birth, Sam was rushed to Maine Medical Center with a life-threatening virus. He quickly went into septic shock and multi-organ failure, and was given a very small chance of survival. Amazingly, Sam made some incredible, unexpected strides toward recovery in the past two weeks. His blood pressure has normalized, his kidneys have recovered, he no longer needs a ventilator to breathe, and his liver-- the epicenter of the virus-- initially showed some promising signs of recovery. Although he surprised everyone with his miraculous improvement, his liver has continued to show signs of extreme damage, requiring frequent blood product transfusions to keep him alive. On November 1, Sam was transferred to Boston's Children Hospital to be evaluated by the liver transplant team. They have since placed Sam on the transplant list, as they believe his own liver will not recover enough to support him.


Moe and Kevin have been overwhelmed by, and grateful for, the tremendous outpouring of support and prayer from friends, family, medical staff, and friends of friends. This has played an essential role in keeping them as strong and courageous as they have shown themselves to be. So many people have come to us asking how they can help, and Moe and Kevin have answered that a blood donation to the Red Cross would be a great way to help them give back, as it continues to play such an important role for Sam. Maureen's colleagues are hosting a blood drive in Sam's honor on November 18 (see picture for details). Considering Sam's need for a liver transplant and ongoing medical care, it is clear that he and his family will need some financial support. Sam's aunts and uncles have established a fund to help them with his medical journey. Moe and Kevin are expecting a lengthy stay in Boston, as Sam is still very, very small and young for a transplant. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated. And please continue to send positive thoughts and prayers to the whole Sturtevant family. Thank you!