In support of Sam’s vision, we have created The Sam Schneider Legacy. Our mission is to raise funds for Ewing sarcoma research, raise awareness for Ewing sarcoma and pediatric cancers, provide education for medical professionals, and tell Sam's story.
At 19 years old, Sam Schneider was an avid mountain biker who was just kicking off his collegiate career at Fort Lewis College. In late November of 2019, he began having pain in his neck and hip but he thought it was a result of a few very active days of skiing and playing basketball. After several visits to the doctor's office they decided to X-ray a lump on his arm. He didn't think much of it because his primary care doctor had already told him the lump was just from overuse and it didn't seem to be the source of his pain but it was quickly determined that the lump was cancer.
Sam came back home right away and was admitted to Children's Hospital Colorado. A biopsy of the lesion on his forearm determined that he had metastatic Ewing sarcoma. The cancer had spread to his vertebrae, pelvis, liver, and bone marrow. He began chemotherapy on December 21st and received 49 days of chemotherapy and 31 radiation treatments over the next 8 months. In August of 2020, Sam was given an “all clear” scan test result and we rejoiced. Unfortunately, after a short respite from the battle, Sam’s cancer returned in October, and he was told that his cancer could not be cured due to its’ aggressive return and growth. He then began palliative chemotherapy and radiation to slow the growth of his tumors and alleviate pain.
Throughout Sam’s treatment, he refused to give up or give in to feeling sorry for himself. Instead, he was the epitome of bravery, love, and perseverance. He met every appointment and clinic visit with a smile that took over the room and improved everyone’s day. He embraced his battle as he did his life, with positivity and kindness for others.
Sam created Sam's Bucket List for our family to enjoy with him. Not only did Sam want us to make the most of his remaining days, but he also wanted to help others so he spent his final months working on key Ewing sarcoma awareness projects.
Sam passed away on February 16, 2021, in the comfort of his home and in the arms of his family. He is deeply missed, but we continue to honor him and his desire to raise awareness of Ewing sarcoma in hopes of enabling increased early detection for others as his cancer was detected well past becoming metastatic, which is so common for Ewing’s patients.
