Love and Support for Sam and Joey

Love and Support for Sam and Mom Joey

First and foremost, Sam and Joey want to send out a big, heartfelt thank you for the love, support, and endless prayers that have come their way. Your texts, calls, and kind thoughts have meant the world—and we’re happy to share that after a very tough few weeks, Sam is finally on the path to healing and is expected to return home soon to recover.

So many of you have asked how you can help, and after a little nudge (okay, maybe a big one) from friends and family, Joey agreed to let us set up this GoFundMe to give everyone who wants to lend a hand a way to do just that.

As many of you know, Sam—an LSU sophomore with a big heart and an even bigger smile—became seriously ill in early March. After several visits to the campus health center without answers, his symptoms kept worsening. Trusting her gut (as moms always do), Joey flew him home to Cincinnati to get him the care he needed.

What followed was a whirlwind no parent ever wants to face: Sam was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis and Pott’s puffy tumor, a rare and serious complication. Within days, he underwent sinus surgery and, more recently, brain surgery to fight the infection and protect his life.

Joey, a single mom working a full-time, commission-only job, has not been able to work since Sam was hospitalized nearly a month ago. Her full-time job right now is Sam—being his advocate, his nurse, his cheerleader, and his mom. Once Sam is discharged, he’ll need round-the-clock care at home, so returning to work just isn’t an option yet.

This fundraiser is simply to help with everyday expenses—the ones that don’t pause for medical emergencies. We’re hoping to lighten the load a bit for Joey, so she can focus on helping Sam heal without worrying about bills piling up.

If you’re able to contribute, know that every bit helps and is deeply appreciated. And whether you donate, share this page, or just keep Sam and Joey in your thoughts, we’re beyond grateful for you.

Thank you—truly—for the love and support. Your kindness means more than words can say.

With so much love and gratitude,

Team Sam & Joey