Sam Worley - A friend in need.

I would like you to meet my best friend Sam Worley. I have known Sam for over 14 years now. We worked in the computer lab at AIA and spent many hours’ together, helping students and faculty with technical problems, assisting with projects etc.  We often used to laugh at the silly questions that we were asked by the students. Sam used to say – “one day I will become a teacher in this place just so I can teach these kids how to use the computer correctly.” And so he did!

Sam is not just a man of words, he signed up for a Master’s degree that quickly followed by a PHD in Education. His mission was to change the world one student at a time! Sam was able to apply for a teaching position at the Art Institute and was quickly promoted to an Interior Design Professor.

Sam’s ability to connect with his students is truly remarkable. Starting as a staff member and climbing his way up and becoming a professor really helped him understand how the school works. If you pair that with a magical personality and a great sense of humor, you really get a one of a kind teacher with a big heart that inspires others to learn.

I had a feeling Sam was sick all along but we never really talked about it while I was a student. He was always on some sort of irrational diet that didn’t make sense to me, until the day he told me about his kidney disease.

You see, statistically, people who suffer from kidney disease basically quit working and become disabled. Sam on the other hand was able to manage his condition with extreme diets, workouts and medication in order to slow down the process and continue his career.

Sam knew all along his kidneys were failing but because of the strength of his character he never stopped trying to be the best professor he could possibly be for his students. 

About five years ago Sam started having complications from the medication he was using at that time, and had to discontinue his treatments. The only option left was an extremely low protein diet. He lived off rice and a limited assortment of vegetables for about three years. Even with his severe dietary restrictions Sam’s kidneys continued to degrade.

It was two years ego during Christmas when Sam was informed that it was time to start dialysis. Sam is a good candidate for a kidney transplant and has been on the waiting list for about two years. He undergoes dialysis treatment every night so he can continue teaching during the day.

The doctors informed Sam that ironically, even after having a transplant (that may happen in about two years) the anti-rejection drugs are very expensive. Sam’s health insurance will cover some of the cost of those drugs but the price is so high that most kidney patients cannot afford taking the meds.

The Georgia Transplant Foundation set up an account for Sam where every dollar donated will be doubled for all donations placed starting December 2013 through the end of June 2014.

I ask for your help raising money for Sam, so he can pay for his medical treatments while teaching and inspiring students daily. Sam's medical bill will be anywhere between $25,000- $32,000 annually!

Please consider a tax-deductible donation of $10 $20 $30 $40 $50 $100 or any other desired amount.

The world is in great need of teachers with the heart, discipline and character of Dr. Worley, who can inspire students and help them achieve their loftiest goals.

Your help is greatly appreciated!

Sincerely,

Tal Thompson