My name Nick Ruscoe, President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon at Oregon State University, and I'm reaching out to invite you to be a part of something remarkable. Our fraternity has joined forces with the Sam Day Foundation to raise money for childhood cancer research, and to bring awareness about this devastating disease. We refuse to stand idly by. We're on a mission to channel our collective energy and passion into something truly meaningful.

Some background –

The Sam Day Foundation was started in 2018 by a passionate group of people who love Sam Day. These people and many more have become champions of the Sam Day Foundation, and we’d love for you to join us in our ongoing remembrance for Sam, and the ongoing fight for all children afflicted with the brutality of childhood cancers. Since the Sam Day Foundation’s inception, it has contributed more than $1.5M to childhood cancer research, and they are just getting started.

Let me tell you about Sam –

The story of Sam Day is one that resonates deeply within the hearts of all who hear it. A young soul, full of light and hope, whose journey was marked by unwavering courage and boundless determination in the face of the darkest adversary—childhood cancer. At age nine, Sam was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer affecting older kids and young adults.

Sam was the kind of kid people remembered, even before attention was brought to him by this terrible disease. His positive spirit and energy were always known if he was in the room. Whether it was a room full of preschooler peers playing and having fun, or a room full of doctors looking over him whilst he would receive his treatments, Sam was the brightest light in the room. Family and friends would often hear Sam say, “I want to change the world!”.

But even with his strong spirit and energy, this disease attacked Sam’s body causing him to lose his left leg and part of his right foot. Sam carried on in the best ways. He turned his setbacks into opportunities to connect with people, inspire, and break down walls associated with disabilities. Sam even used his prosthetic leg as a prop for humor, practical jokes, and conversation starters. As an amputee, he engaged with a community of physically challenged athletes and found surfing to be the sport that brought him the biggest thrill.

Sam succumbed to his diseases at the age of 15 after a hard fought six-year battle. Now we’re working hard to help carry the torch for Sam and children’s cancer research so that Sam’s light continues to shine bright.

Childhood and adolescent cancer research move slowly. The National Cancer Institute only designates 4% of its cancer research budget to childhood cancers. On average, there are approximately 12 drugs approved for adult cancers every year, but between 1980 and 2019, there have only been a total of four drugs developed and approved to help fight child or adolescent cancers. While adult cancer drugs are being developed at lightning speed, childhood cancer research is decades behind the progress of adult cancers.

That's why we're hosting three incredible events this May, alongside the amazing women of many Oregon State Sororities. Three events will keep Sam’s Fun and spirited ideas alive.

A day of car washes
A 3v3 basketball tournament
A sweetheart pageant

These aren't just fundraisers; they're celebrations of hope, unity, and the power of community coming together for a cause greater than ourselves.

Now, we need YOUR HELP! Your contribution, no matter the size, will help Sigma Alpha Epsilon in our mission to support children battling cancer and will play a crucial role in helping us reach our fundraising goal of $5,000! Together, we can keep Sam's light shining bright, illuminating the path towards a future where every childh has a chance to survive and live well.

So, what do you say? Will you join us in this noble endeavor? Your support means the world to us, and to the countless children and families whose lives will be touched by your generosity. The Gentleman of Sigma Alpha Epsilon at our Oregon State University Chapter sincerely appreciates your consideration and generosity! Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. Together, let's make a difference that lasts a lifetime.

Thank you!

Nick Ruscoe, President

Sigma Alpha Epsilon

Oregon State University

sae.president1@gmail.com | (503)-804-0737

SAE SDF Fundraiser

By Sam Day Foundation

SAE SDF Fundraiser