Sam Richardson and his wife, Sarah, have three children: Vivian, Grace and Samantha. In addition to providing for their daughters’ futures, Sam and Sarah want to set an example for their girls about giving back and caring for others — the same values Sam and Sarah’s parents instilled in them.
“Both of our families placed great importance on helping others and caring,” says Sarah. “I think that’s why the two of us feel so connected. Those things are important to us.”
Sam and Sarah arranged to leave a gift for City of Hope through their whole life insurance plan. “We were taught that you give what you can, and we want to send that same message to our children,” says Sam. “That’s why we’ve left a gift of life insurance to City of Hope. It’s an easy way to provide for our daughters and leave a legacy that gives hope to future families.”
It’s no surprise that Sam became a dedicated supporter. His successful career is the result of his great drive and professional commitment and, over the years, he has worked for three companies that are longtime supporters of City of Hope’s National Business Products Industry group. But then his relationship with City of Hope became very personal.
Sam’s father was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bladder cancer. “He called me and told me he had three months to live,” Sam recalls. “I sought out the doctors at City of Hope because I knew they could provide essentially that: hope. And they did.”
Sam connected his father with Sumanta Pal, M.D., a recognized expert in genitourinary cancers.
“I was inspired by his compassion,” Sam continues. “Through his voice, through his words, he embodies the care and concern I’ve come to know in City of Hope.”
Sarah agrees. “Cancer is such a personal battle,” she says. “It affected our entire family. In desperate times, we need someone to take off their white coat and talk to us like a person who has their own family and understands that we are scared. City of Hope was a blessing.”
In August 2020, Sam’s father passed away from bladder cancer. Sam says, “His fight would not have been as manageable had it not been for City of Hope’s doctors and advisors. My dad lived five quality years, into his 80s, with terminal cancer that initially had a bleak outlook. His strong faith in God and determination gave him a great perspective on his final years with two beloved children, six grandchildren and a loving 45-year marriage to his wife.”
