ENTER THE ARENA: RUGBY vs CANCER
Welcome to Slammin’ Sam B – where grit, resilience, and pure warrior spirit take center stage.
This isn’t just a blog. This is Sam’s Origin Story.
A story of a young rugby player facing his toughest opponent yet – Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL). But cancer doesn’t stand a chance against the heart of a warrior.
Through real, raw updates, powerful stories, and a growing community of rugby legends and supporters, we’re here to show that cancer doesn’t define the fight – attitude does.
💥 Follow Sam’s journey – warts and all
💥 Get inspired by messages from superstar players
💥 Join the movement & support ALL charities
💥 Prove that no challenge is bigger than the human spirit
This isn’t just about one boy. This is about every child facing the fight of their life.
Because rugby players don’t back down. And neither does Sam.
Get involved. Be inspired. Support the cause.
Giving Back to Those Who Helped Us
Sammy spent his first weeks at Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH) undergoing lumbar punctures and bone marrow tests. The doctors and nurses were exceptional, providing incredible care in a hospital that has grown over time but always puts children first. We want to support them however we can.
Young Lives vs Cancer helps families like ours facing the toughest fight. No child should go through this, but for those who do, this charity provides vital support when it’s needed most.
Ronald McDonald House gave Nicola a place to stay near Sammy every night, saving us from huge hotel costs and ensuring she never had to be far from him. Their support was priceless, and now, we want to give back. If you can, please help us make a difference.
Supporting Sammy’s Fight
This GoFundMe was set up by our closest friend, Ross, to help Nicola focus entirely on caring for Sammy during his toughest battle.
We’ve been told this journey could last two years or more, and while we never expected to be in this position, ensuring Sammy has his mum by his side every step of the way is our biggest priority.
If you choose to support, know that every donation goes directly to Nicola, helping her stay by Sammy’s side through every treatment, every challenge, and every victory.
We’re beyond grateful for the love, support, and kindness shown to our family. Thank you for being part of this fight. 💙🏉
Latest Posts
Scottish rugby legend Finn Russell joins Bath teammate Ollie Lawrence in sending a special message of support to Slammin’ Sam B! 🏉🔥 These moments lift Sammy’s spirits and prove that rugby is more than just a game—it’s a family. 💙
ALL is unpredictable, but a solid plan makes all the difference. 🏉💙 Learn how to manage time, adapt to sudden changes, and use the Spoon Theory to balance energy levels during treatment. Stay prepared, stay strong! 💪🔥
Huddersfield Giants step up for Slammin’ Sam B! 🏉💜 With support videos, a signed rugby ball, and heartfelt messages, these legends prove the power of the rugby community. Read how the Giants made Sammy’s day! 🔥
The journey after an ALL diagnosis can feel overwhelming. 🏥💙 From meeting the medical team to handling emotions and staying strong for your child, here’s what to expect—and how to focus on what you can control. 🏉🔥
South Sydney Rabbitohs join Team Slammin’ Sam B! 🏉🔥 Four NRL stars—Campbell Graham, Jamie Humphries, Euan Aitken, and Tyrone Munro—send their support. The rugby family grows stronger… but the hunt for Slammin’ Sam Burgess continues! 💙🐰
What is Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL)? 🏉💙 A simple, easy-to-understand guide for kids and parents, explaining B-ALL, why doctors act fast, and how treatment works—told through real-life rugby analogies. Read now! 🔥
Mission Day complete! 🚀💥 Sammy took on another lumbar puncture, played a trick on us post-op, and demanded McDonald’s at 4:30 AM! Another round of chemo, a new family theme tune, and Fortnite bragging rights on the line. 💙🏉🔥
Mission Day at Birmingham Children’s Hospital! 🚀🏥 Sammy undergoes a bone marrow sample and lumbar puncture while blasting Snoop Dogg as his mission anthem. Another rugby legend sends support, and the fight continues! 💙🏉🔥
Newcastle Falcons Head Coach and ex-England star Mark Wilson joins Team Slammin’ Sam B! 🏉🔥 His message of support lifted Sammy’s spirits and proved once again that rugby is more than just a game—it’s family. 💙
Finding our feet and stacking up points! 🏉🔥 Sammy’s room is now fully kitted out with a PS5, he’s smashing his fitness, and Hazza bagged Player of the Week! Another win for Team Slammin’ Sam B! 💙🎮
A rare ‘normal’ day for Slammin’ Sam B! 🏉🔥 A lazy morning, some rugby, and a surprise England win—plus a minor nosebleed drama that called in the nurses. But Sammy is smashing it as always! 💪💙
Round 2 of chemo is complete! 💪🎗️ Sammy faced the morning battle with his wigglies, smashed his hospital visit, and is back home thriving (with a little help from KFC & Fortnite! 🎮🍗). Huge thanks to everyone supporting him! 💙🔥
Sammy made it home… but the fight continues! 🏡➡️🏥 After a short but sweet return to his own bed, a chemo setback sent him back to Royal Stoke. Now, we’re focused on keeping him strong and ready for battle! 💪🔥
Sammy has made the big move back to Royal Stoke! 💙 After a chaotic hospital transfer (complete with Daddy Beast Mode 🔥), he’s finally settling in. Strong vitals, smashing the tables, and proving once again that he’s an absolute warrior! 💪🏉
England rugby star Ollie Lawrence sent a personal video message to Slammin’ Sam B, lifting his spirits in the fight against ALL. A huge thank you to Ollie for proving that rugby is more than just a game—it’s a family. 🏉🔥
Slammin’ Sam B is making progress after his first chemotherapy session, showing strong blood results and stable intake. He’s set to return to Royal Stoke, allowing a heartfelt reunion with his baby sister. The family expresses immense gratitude to supporters, particularly to Nicki for her strength and positivity during this tough journey.
Stay in the Fight – Subscribe Now!
Join the Slammin’ Sam B Squad and be part of Sammy’s journey as he takes on the toughest match of his life. By subscribing, you’ll get:
✅ Exclusive updates on Sammy’s fight and progress 💪
✅ Superstar rugby player messages & interviews 🎤🏉
✅ Our upcoming podcast featuring rugby legends (Sale Sharks are already on board!)
✅ Tips, guidance & real-life experiences to help families facing similar battles
This isn’t just a newsletter—it’s a community of warriors, supporters, and game-changers. Subscribe now and stand with Sammy as he proves that no opponent is too tough!
🔥 Hit the button and join the team! 🔥