Samantha Eisenstein Watson has twice survived cancer. In December 1999, Samantha was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma. Two years later, she faced a diagnosis of secondary myelodysplastic syndrome.
Although Sam received extraordinary family support, she witnessed many young adults who had to put their lives on hold as they endured treatment and incurred financial debt. Many emerge from treatment with lasting physical disabilities and few financial resources, while their peers are starting college, families and lives on their own.
In 2003, Sam created the SAMFund for Young Adult Survivors of Cancer. The nonprofit provides financial support to help young adults make a successful transition into post-treatment life.
Sam and her team of volunteers have awarded in excess of $500,000 in grants and scholarships to more than 250 young adult cancer survivors, helping them to not only live but to move forward.
