Help Sam Create Lasting Memories: Support Her Final Journey

We would like to raise some money to support Samantha (Sam), aged 38 married to Jay (Jamie) and mum to George and Lorelai as they all face the reality of losing Sam's cancer battle soon.

Sam's journey is a testament to her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. A dynamic and unapologetic woman, Sam has battled cancer not once, but twice, with her latest diagnosis sadly one she is unable to battle anymore.

Sam's Cancer Journey

Sam's battle with cancer began in 2010 when she was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. She overcame this initial diagnosis, but her fight was far from over.

In May 2023, just three weeks after fulfilling her lifelong dream of opening her own bar, Sam received devastating news. She was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, a rare type of cancer affecting bones and soft tissues. The tumour was located on a nerve behind her left shoulder collarbone, initially presenting as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Despite undergoing a series of operations and radiotherapy to remove the tumour, Sam was left with her left arm 90% paralysed due to the removal of nerves controlling it. Her recovery was progressing until a fall in January 2024 led to the discovery that the tumour had returned in her shoulder and spread to both lungs. At this point, her condition was deemed terminal. Her initial prognosis was up to 18 months, sadly after battling through further chemotherapy she has had the horrific news that she will lose her battle with cancer in only a few months.

Sam's Passion and Business

Sam's bar, The Library, which opened on May 21, 2023, was the realisation of a childhood dream. It was conceived as a craft beer and handmade cocktail bar, serving tapas-style food. More importantly, it was designed to be an inclusive venue for the Aylesbury community, welcoming people from all walks of life. Sam created not only a bar but a safe haven which quickly became a community hub for anyone in the area who just wanted to feel like they belonged. Everyone loves Sam because she is like a mum, friend, sister, ride or die bestie to everyone who walks through the door.

The bar quickly became a hub for various events, including:

Weekly open mic nights

Weekly quiz nights (personally written by Sam and her staff)

Monthly drag performances by the house Sexwell (an Aylesbury-based drag family)

Multiple live music events featuring a diverse range of genres

Sam's dedication to creating an inclusive and vibrant space was evident in the bar's popularity and its embrace by the local LGBTQ+ community. Sam was also instrumental in supporting the first PRIDE event locally with the bar at the centre.

Sam's loves

In addition to her vibrant personality, potty mouth and entrepreneurial spirit, Sam has always been drawn to the mystical, magical world. She has a deep love for crystals and their purported healing properties. Crystals like citrine, known for its ability to promote courage and abundance, resonate with Sam’s fighting spirit. Selenite, a master cleanser stone, symbolises purification and strength during her battle against cancer.

These mystical elements bring comfort and positivity into her life during this challenging time. They serve as reminders of hope and resilience, enhancing her emotional well-being as she navigates this journey.

Sam also is a keen cubs leader which she adores doing with her son George. She loves long walks in the countryside, doors (yes actual doors), live music gigs, lots of laughs with her friends and she loves getting people together for a good meal.

Current Situation

Despite her determination, Sam's health has begun to deteriorate faster than anticipated. She has been unable to work at the bar since April due to her treatments and the loss of use in her left arm. The stress of running the bar without being physically present has become overwhelming, taking away precious time she could be spending with her children and family.

Sam is heartbroken about having to close the bar, but she's proud of what she accomplished in its first year of operation. She has been trying to find buyers to continue the business after she's gone, but unfortunately, time has run out.

As Sam faces this final battle with cancer, she wishes to spend her remaining time creating special moments with her husband Jay and children George and Lorelai. The fundraising effort aims to support Sam's end-of-life care and allow her to make the most of her time with her loved ones.

We would also like to support Jay and the children after Sam has left us to ensure that they have what they need.