Samantha Akers

Support Samantha Akers’ Second Chance at Life

Family and friends of Samantha “Sammi” Akers are raising funds through the trusted nonprofit Help Hope Live to help cover uninsured medical expenses related to her life-saving liver transplant.

Sammi chose Help Hope Live because donations are tax-deductible and will be used exclusively to cover medical and related expenses. Your gift directly supports Sammi’s recovery and ongoing care needs as she rebuilds her strength and health.

Sammi’s Journey

On August 9, 2025, Sammi received the gift of life—a liver transplant at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL. Surrounded by a compassionate medical team of doctors, nurses, and caregivers, she is profoundly grateful for the expert care and kindness she has received throughout her transplant journey.

At 50 years old, Sammi has faced more than her share of medical challenges with courage and grace. Diagnosed in 2009 with stage 3 bridging fibrosis caused by NASH (fatty liver disease), she has also survived two strokes, breast cancer, and blood clots. Through it all, her love for her family and her unwavering spirit have carried her forward.

Her husband of 30 years has been her devoted partner and caregiver, providing constant support before, during, and after her transplant. Their daughter has been her steadfast motivator and loving encourager throughout recovery, while her sister has been by her side with care and compassion every step of the way.

Sammi’s family and friends have surrounded her with love and prayers, sustaining her through her hardest moments. She also carries the memory of her late father, who passed away from NASH and multi-organ failure ten years ago. As his medical proxy, Sammi made the difficult but selfless decision to pass his offered liver to the next person on the transplant list when he became too ill for surgery—an act that gave someone else the chance to live. Today, she honors his memory by cherishing each new day she’s been given.

Gratitude for a Second Chance

Sammi’s heart is full of gratitude for her liver donor and their family, whose generosity and love have given her a new beginning. The road to recovery has been long and challenging, but knowing that her donor’s liver is thriving fills her with hope and joy for the future.

With continued medical follow-ups, medications, and travel for care, Sammi faces significant ongoing expenses. Your contribution helps ease that burden and allows her to focus on healing, recovery, and celebrating life with those she loves.

Sammi’s Favorite Irish Blessing

May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Her Favorite Quote

“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” — Moulin Rouge (2001)