Sam, who is now 17, was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis (JA) at the age of two, so raising funds for arthritis research is of particular importance to her. As part of her treatment as a child, Sam and her mom Pamela participated in water therapy activities twice a week with Sam’s physiotherapist. This exercise program focused on improving joint flexibility and balance, and inspired Sam to develop a passion for swimming. Sam may not be able to run, but in the water she has proven that her arthritis won’t hold her back. She says, “On land, I can’t run, but being diagnosed with juvenile arthritis has never stopped me in the water.” 

Training every day, sometimes even twice a day for hours at a time, Sam worked hard to prepare for her last Lake Ontario swim. Her efforts paid off. She is the second-fastest female to do the crossing, just under the current record set by Cindy Nicholas in 1974.

Sam’s efforts have helped people to understand that arthritis can affect anyone at any age. Her courage and determination have been a wonderful example of how people with arthritis can live and succeed. She knows, however, that much more work needs to be done in the fight against arthritis to help the nearly 4.5 million Canadians who struggle with the severe pain and disability of the disease.

Support Sam in her goal to raise funds for vital arthritis research and programs to help ensure that people with arthritis have the most advanced treatments and live fulfilling, independent lives. Click here to make a pledge.

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This page was last reviewed/updated on : 09/17/2007