OUR MISSION
Sam’s Superheroes Foundation was founded in 2021 to honour the memory of our beloved son, Sam, who tragically passed away from FIRES (Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome) at just 5 years old.
As a registered charity (1210458), Sam’s Superheroes Foundation now raises funds to support vital research into FIRES, the rare and devastating disease that took our son from us.
ABOUT SAM
Sam was a boy who found joy in life's simple pleasures—whether it was turning a stick into a sword, marvelling at nature, or building train tracks.
He loved splashing in puddles in his wellies, collecting stones at the beach, and laughing at silly jokes. Sam's infectious love for life and nature touched everyone around him.
He adored superheroes, often dressing up as his favourite, never knowing he would become a real-life hero himself. Sam’s bravery and spirit live on through Sam's Superheroes Foundation, a lasting legacy of his courage, joy and kindness.
ABOUT FIRES
FIRES (Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome) is an extremely rare and aggressive neurological condition that causes life-threatening seizures and can lead to permanent brain damage.
There is a shocking lack of research into this devastating condition, leaving families with unanswered questions, limited treatment options and little hope. Our goal is to change that.
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LACK OF RESEARCH
Despite the severity of FIRES, it remains vastly under-funded and under researched. This lack of research means families are left in the dark, struggling to find treatments that can improve their loved ones’ lives.
We are committed to raising funds to drive research that could lead to breakthroughs, better treatments, and ultimately a cure.
MEET OUR FOUNDER:
Rachel Liew
Rachel Liew, Sam’s devoted mother, founded Sam’s Superheroes Foundation to create a lasting legacy for her son and raise awareness of FIRES. As the driving force behind the charity, Rachel oversees its daily operations and works tirelessly to fund research and support families affected by FIRES.
An advocate for FIRES research, Rachel is available for guest speaking, panels, and interviews. In 2023, she was a guest speaker at the NORSE Institute's International Conference. More recently, she shared Sam’s story at the UK’s Epilepsy Research Institute’s Reception in London, where she introduced the pioneering researchers leading the UK’s first FIRES Research study.
To book Rachel for speaking engagements, please contact her:
Phone: 07880 343416
Email: rachel@samssuperheroes.co.uk
For press and media enquiries, please contact Sarah at Penguin PR:
Phone: 01332 416228
Email: sarah@penguinPR.co.uk
MEET DAISY THE SUPER THERAPY DOG
Daisy, a black Labrador, was Sam's beloved dog from the age of two, and they were inseparable. Her calm and loving nature mirrored Sam’s, and when Sam was in critical care, Daisy’s visits showed her remarkable ability to comfort and soothe. After Sam's passing, it felt natural for Daisy to become a key part of his legacy and the charity.
Trained by Brook Working Dogs and who will shortly become a certified Therapy Dog with PAWS, Daisy works alongside Rachel to provide animal-assisted therapy. She brings joy, healing, and Sam’s love to children in various settings.
Our Therapy Dog Work Includes work with the following organisations:
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Silverhill Primary School, Mickleover
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Castle School, Derby
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St Thomas Catholic Primary School, Ilkeston
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Bridge the Gap, Child Mental Health, Derby
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Lunar Mind, Derby
Daisy’s work continues to make a profound impact, spreading Sam’s warmth and energy wherever she goes.
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Sarah Leroux – Chair
Becky Sutton - Finance
Emma Plummer - Vice Chair
OUR TRUSTEES
Our trustees are a passionate group of individuals, all driven by a commitment to making a difference. Each of us brings unique skills and experiences to the table, but we share one common goal: to honour Sam’s legacy by supporting families affected by FIRES and pushing for research that could save lives.
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Millie Saunders – Deputy Safe Guarding Lead
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Rhiannon Jones – Safe Guarding Lead
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