Tonight I received a call from my friend Christy, Sam’s wife. She informed me that my buddy has hours to live. We have known for a while now that his brain cancer had gotten the best of him…but you always have faith and pray that something miraculous will happen.
Sam was one of the kindest people I have known. He has always been so generous with his time and spirit.
Sam was my assistant manager for two years in Lake Tahoe, where we ran photography operations on ski mountains and shooting rafters on the Truckee River. From the moment I met him, I knew that we would share many good times together! Sam taught me to surf…something I am still working on today and will probably for the rest of my life. He was an amazing surfer–growing up in San Diego does that for you I guess.
Christy, and his son Noah, are the light of his life and they were certainly made for each other. They were so thoughtful towards each other during the time I spent with them. She has just been so strong through this whole ordeal. Tonight she just wanted to let me know that he is ready to make his peace and be in a better place.
So as you go through your day and weekend…please be thankful for those around you that you love! We are all so fortunate to be doing what we love and to have such a great community–let’s not forget just how fortunate we are!
Update : It was a matter of hours and Sam has passed. Friends…lite a candle and celebrate the days we had with Sam. Photographers…thanks for letting me share part of my weekend with you, it certainly helps!
I am glad to hear that he is finding his peace but sad to hear about the ones that are left behind. My love and prayers to his family and you!
Tina
I am so sorry… my thoughts and prayers are with everyone.
~S
Tina and Shannon thanks so much for your thoughts and support!
Sam and his family will be in our prayers…and I will no doubt be sure to give my kids and wife extra kisses and attention (“being thankful for those around you that you love..”)
Sorry for your loss J. Hold on tight to those special memories.
J,
Sorry to hear it, man. My prayers go out to his family.
Glad you reached out to your blog friends on this one as I know how special Sam and his family are to you. I’m here for you, sweets, always. xo
Sorry for the lateness of this post but I had just found out last night.
Sam was a great guy.
Just wanted others to know I miss him.
Best wishes and prayers to all of his family and friends.
Was really looking forward to seeing him at the 20th reunion.
Jeff