For Tom and Brenda Samblanet of Homeworth, the legacy of their son, Lee, will live on and touch the lives of many.
On June 27, 2007, Lee passed away after a courageous eight-year battle with a very rare form of cancer known as primitive neuroectodermal tumor, also called PNET. This cancer attacked Lee’s facial and cranial areas and required multiple surgeries and countless units of blood (and platelets) during his treatment at Akron Children’s Hospital.
Brenda Samblanet said, “As we reflect on the many surgeries, procedures and treatments Lee underwent during his brave battle, we realize there are so many unsung heroes in our midst.”
She explained how, during a 15-hour surgery in Pittsburg, an organ donor’s heart tissue was used to patch the lining of Lee’s brain, while he received numerous blood transfusions as his body fought to withstand intensive proton beam radiation during a three-month stay at a health care facility in Loma Linda, CA.
“Lee also was hospitalized for three months for a stem cell transplant and it was during this time that bags of blood and platelets hung next to his bed, sustaining him on a daily basis. It was only because of many special ‘angels’ giving of themselves that Lee lived each day to the best of his ability. We are grateful for each day and each memory,” she said.
To honor Lee’s legacy, the family is hosting a blood drive on Monday, November 3rd at the Alliance Community Hospital in conference room 1-A. The hours for the drive are 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
“We are urging anyone who can donate to do so. Lee’s organs were too diseased to donate, but by donating blood, platelets or organs, you will be offering the ultimate tribute to a young man who strived to live,” said Brenda.
The family wants Lee’s memory to inspire those who have never thought about the priceless gift (of life) that they carry inside themselves.
Please ACH Volunteer Services at (330) 596-7522 to make a reservation.