Samantha Strong

Meet our HERO Samantha! She was first diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of two, which they discovered was cancer. Samantha fought that battle through many surgeries and extensive therapy to gain back her independence. Two years later at age four another cancerous brain tumor occurred and was removed, again she battled and worked so hard to get back the skills she lost. At age 6 another tumor appeared and after it was removed they decided to use radiation in the hopes to kill any other cancer cells in that area of her brain. Samantha blossomed after that treatment as she once again fought to get back lost ground through extra homework and summer tutoring. At age 10 Samantha was so excited to be starting the 5 grade. The day before school started Samantha’s doctor discovered a new tumor in her neck, which they determined was cancer once again. This time it was located in her lymphoid gland in her neck and was more complicated to treat. She endured months on treatment including chemotherapy and radiation treatments as well as major surgery to remove all effected muscle and tissue in her neck and lymph glands.
Samantha is now 14, almost 15; she loves animals, people, and her family. Samantha is a beautiful person who makes sure everyone around her is happy and loved. She loves riding her horse and playing softball. However, she has again been diagnosed with ependymoma, which is the same cancer as the other 4 times, in another lymph node on her head. She will start radiation treatments in the next week and further types of treatment are still being determined.
Samantha has one older brother and two younger brothers. Her Dad works in the mines and her Mom is a cosmetologist who is currently unable to work due to the COVIS-19 restrictions. Samantha also has many extended family members and friends who love and help support her family.
The financial struggle for this family is very real, they have health insurance however, that only means ALL the co-pays and deductibles must be paid by the family. The travel to and from the hospital in Salt Lake City for treatment and the missed work will all add up quickly. Samantha’s parents are amazing people who work so hard to provide for and take care of their family; they do not like to take handouts however, they need your help. Please donate what you can and share this story with as many people as you can.
Let’s help Samantha fight and show her we believe in her!