Edit 7/1/24:

Samantha Marie was called to Heaven around 11 pm on 6/30. She was surrounded by her loved ones, and she was not in pain nor scared at the time of goodbye. Knowing that she is at peace brings us a bit of solace.

The family is using this time to process and grieve. Information and updates about her memorial will be released as we know.

If you are able to share a memory of Sam or feel so inclined donate for her memorial expenses, the family would be eternally grateful.

We thank you all so much for your support during her fight. God Bless you all.

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In April 2024, just a couple weeks after her 30th birthday, after a month of constant pain and multiple ER visits, Samantha Marie (Sam) Ketner was admitted to Lyndon B. Johnson hospital where she stayed for over a month without answers. Sam was then diagnosed with stage 4 undifferentiated carcinoma that has metastasized and created nodules to her pelvic, abdominal, and now thoracic cavities. She was given a few months to live without any clear answers as to what is going on.

At LBJ, Sam underwent bloodwork, multiple biopsies, renal procedures, infections, and procedures to alleviate the pain from her lymphedema. She has completed 1 round of chemotherapy.

After two months at LBJ, Sam was discharged to the care of her parents, having to abandon her apartment. After a week in her new home, Sam was readmitted to MD Anderson following an infection in her kidneys and renal ports and needed a drainage procedure. She then contracted Covid. She is in a lot of pain and her treatment and discharge plans are unknown as of 6/23/24.

Sam is a big sister to me, literally. I have grown up with her and her family since I was 5 years old, and am doing all I can to help with her and her family's stress and sadness. Sam bears not only the biggest smile I have ever seen, but the biggest giving heart. Anytime I complimented her shirt, she'd literally take it off her back and give it to me. When she was struggling, she'd give her all just to help someone else out for nothing in return.

Sam loves animals, especially her dogs. She is a literal tree hugger, thriving in nature. She is the most energetic and caring soul. She gave everything to provide love to her grandparents.

Sam does not have insurance. As cancer is a costly and consequential diagnosis, the family could use anything you are able to give. For those who are unable to provide financial donations, please consider prayers, healing vibes, or whatever you are into. We could use all the love, healing, and comfort that is possible.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.