Standing with Sammy; The Final Journey

This fundraiser is for my cousin Jack, his wife Lauren, and their beautiful little boy, Sam.

In February 2022, after months of unexplained illness and countless doctor visits a then 19-month-old Sam was diagnosed with high-risk Neuroblastoma — a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. By the time it was discovered, the cancer had already spread throughout his tiny body, including his bone marrow.

Many of you already know parts or all of their journey — how Jack and Lauren have had to make unimaginable sacrifices over the past few years. They sold their family home and relocated from Benalla to Melbourne so that Sam could receive treatment at the Royal Children’s Hospital. Sam has endured rounds of intense chemotherapy, major surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy. Despite their every effort and the best care possible, the cancer continues to return and resist treatment. They’ve now received the heartbreaking news that Sam’s disease has reached a point of no return and only has days left on this Earth.

Throughout it all, Jack and Lauren have done everything they can to hold their family together, while also caring for their other two children — 6 year-old Tommy and 2 year-old Taylah. This journey has taken an enormous emotional and financial toll. Jack has been unable to work consistently while supporting Sammy in hospital, and Lauren has been caring for their young children at home.

Now, for the time they have left with Sam, we want to give them the gift of time and peace — time to be together, and peace from financial worry. Your support will help cover basic living costs and whatever is needed to make Sam as comfortable as possible for the short amount of time he has left.

If you are able to give, every dollar counts. And if you are not in a position to donate, please consider sharing this page, and most importantly, keep Sam and his family in your prayers.

We continue to pray for peace, strength, and comfort — trusting in God’s presence during this unimaginable time.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you.