Sam’s Wish Fund was established in 2009 in memory of Samantha “Sam” Harvell, a young girl whose courage, strength, and spirit continue to inspire others today.

Doug Shambley met Sam following the loss of his brother, Ricky “Tricky Ricky” Shambley. In 2006, Doug organized the first Tricky Ricky Ride to honor Ricky’s memory and raise support for a local child in need. Sam became the ride’s very first beneficiary. What began as a fundraiser soon became a friendship that would leave a lasting impact on Doug and everyone who knew her.

After being diagnosed with osteosarcoma, Sam faced a difficult two-year battle with cancer. Despite the challenges she endured, she remained spunky, energetic, determined, and full of life. Her positive attitude, quick wit, and ability to bring smiles to others inspired family, friends, caregivers, and supporters throughout her journey.

Doug watched firsthand as Sam faced each obstacle with remarkable courage and strength. Through their friendship, she taught him—and many others, the power of perseverance, kindness, and hope.

Before her passing on November 15, 2008, Sam asked Doug to continue helping children facing challenges similar to her own. He promised her he would.

Following Sam’s passing, that promise became a reality. In 2009, Sam’s Wish Fund was formally established through a partnership between Doug Shambley and Hospice of Alamance-Caswell. The fund was created with the support and leadership of Patti Gasparello, Director of Kids Path, and Peter Barcus, CEO of Hospice of Alamance-Caswell. Together, they developed a way to honor Sam’s memory by helping grant wishes and provide special opportunities for children facing serious illness, medical adversity, and loss.

What began with one child and one promise has grown into a lasting mission of compassion, generosity, and community support. Through fundraising events, donations, volunteers, and dedicated supporters, Sam’s Wish Fund has helped create meaningful experiences, lasting memories, and moments of joy for children and families throughout the region.

In 2019, Hospice of Alamance-Caswell merged with Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro. In 2020, the organization became known as AuthoraCare Collective. Today, Sam’s Wish Fund is proudly housed within Kids Path of AuthoraCare, continuing the mission that began with a promise and serving children and families throughout the 13 counties supported by Kids Path.

Every wish granted is a reminder that Sam’s spirit lives on. Through each child helped, each family supported, and each wish fulfilled, the promise Doug made to Sam continues to make a difference in the lives of others.