In September of 2010, nine-year-old Sam Day was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and relentless bone cancer. At diagnosis, he was said to have a 75% chance of surviving five years or more. For six years Sam endured multiple treatment regimens, 20 surgeries (including left leg amputation and partial right foot amputation), clinical trials, nutritional and naturopathic therapies, and one off-label drug (not FDA approved for pediatric cancers). During his six-year battle, Sam’s family and friends began to raise funds for the development of a targeted drug for Ewing Sarcoma in the hopes that Sam would live long enough to receive that new and promising drug. Sam died on August 27th, 2016 at age 15, never having the opportunity to receive that breakthrough drug. Throughout Sam’s cancer battle, he maintained an enthusiasm for life that drew the attention, inspiration, support and admiration of communities and individuals around the country. The Sam Day Foundation has been formed in response to the commitment of a community of people who loved Sam and are compelled to fight for other young people who have to endure rare, hard to treat cancers. We believe there is reason to be hopeful for less toxic, more effective cancer treatments and we are driven to draw attention to the forgotten cancers that impact adolescents and young adults, in memory of Sam Day.
