This page is to help support Samuel Johnk and his family during an incredibly difficult time.

Sam was newly married on September 6, 2025, and just a few months later—right before Christmas—he received a life-changing diagnosis of Progressive Muscular Atrophy (PMA), a rare neuromuscular disease that can progress into ALS.

Sam has dedicated his entire adult life to serving others. He became a firefighter at just 18 years old and has served with the Bethlehem Fire Department, Haverhill Fire Department, and as a Lieutenant with the Sugar Hill Fire Department. For over 10 years, he has also volunteered as a ski patroller at Cannon Mountain, participating in numerous search and rescue missions throughout the mountains of Northern New Hampshire. Sam has carried injured hikers for miles to safety and is the kind of person who will always stop to help a stranger—whether that means jumping a car, towing a vehicle, or clearing a fallen tree.

Sam owns his own arborist business, a physically demanding job that he loves. Unfortunately, PMA is making it increasingly difficult for him to continue working. For those unfamiliar, Progressive Muscular Atrophy is a disorder characterized by the degeneration of lower motor neurons, resulting in a progressive loss of muscle function.

The goal of this fundraiser is to help relieve some of the financial stress this diagnosis has placed on Sam, his new wife, and their family. One of the medications Sam has been prescribed costs approximately $200,000. While insurance will cover part of the cost, a significant portion will not be covered.

Additionally, Sam’s size—standing 6’3”—means that accommodations will need to be made to their home as his mobility changes. These include installing a taller toilet and raising furniture and counters to better support his daily needs.

Any donation, no matter the amount, will help us reach our goal and support Sam and his family during this incredibly challenging time. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page also makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.