Honoring Dr. Samantha Garza's Legacy

Kaitlyn Rodriguez is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Cameron Powell.

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Remembering Dr. Samantha Garza, MD

April 16, 1996 – June 30, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Samantha “Sam” Garza, MD. In September 2023, Sam was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor—medulloblastoma—while in her final year of medical school. At the time, she was actively applying to residency programs, pursuing her dream of becoming an anesthesiologist.

Sam’s journey into medicine was deeply personal. In 2014, her younger sister, Karla, was diagnosed with the same rare tumor. That experience ignited Sam’s passion to heal and serve others. She excelled in medical school and was awarded her MD degree. While she stood on the threshold of her career, she was forced to step into the role of a patient—one she met with unimaginable strength.

Over the course of 21 courageous months, Sam endured three brain surgeries, countless rounds of chemotherapy, and multiple courses of photon radiation. She faced every challenge with the same grace, resilience, and compassion that defined her life. Her kindness and humor never wavered, and it came as no surprise that she quickly became a favorite among her care teams.

Even in the midst of her own battle, Sam never stopped thinking of others. While undergoing treatment, she organized a fundraiser for the National Brain Tumor Society, driven by her unwavering belief in lifting others up. Her lifelong goal was to heal, help, and leave the world better than she found it.

Sam is survived by the love of her life, Cam, her devoted parents, her sisters, brother, and her dog, Buster. Her passing leaves a permanent void in the hearts of all who knew her. But her light, her love, and her legacy will live on.

In honor of Dr. Samantha Garza’s life, we invite you to donate in her memory. Your contributions will support others fighting this devastating disease and continue the work Sam was so passionate about. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to this GoFundMe in which funds will be donated to the National Brain Tumor Society.

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