Rockwall family's 21st Sam's Night raises $1.7 million to fight Duchenne

More than two decades ago, a Rockwall family started a fun day for their young son and his friends. On Thursday, Oct. 15, the Killian family hosted the 21st annual Sam's Night at Victory Social, and preliminary totals show it raised $1.7 million for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD).

The event is named for Sam Killian, now 24, who was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 2005. Duchenne is a progressive genetic disorder that slowly takes away a person's muscle strength. Sam's Night began as Sam's Family Fun Day. Over the years it has become an evening fundraiser that brings together the Killians' friends, family, colleagues and supporters. In total it has raised more than $10 million for PPMD's work on research, care, advocacy and access to therapies.

"After 21 years, we are still amazed by the incredible support Sam's Night continues to receive," said John Killian, Sam's father. He said the event has "grown and evolved alongside" Sam.

PPMD says better care and new treatments are helping people with Duchenne live longer. Since PPMD was founded in 1994, average lifespan for people with Duchenne has risen from the late teens and early 20s to the mid-20s and early 30s. More people with the condition are now reaching adulthood and going to school, starting careers and building relationships.

"Sam's journey reflects a larger story across the Duchenne community," said Pat Furlong, PPMD's founding president. She said the Killians' generosity and commitment "have made a difference for countless families."

Last year, the 20th Sam's Night matched the event's record of $1.5 million. This year's preliminary total is higher.

This story is based on reporting shared by Star Local Media from a Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy announcement distributed by PR Newswire.