The memory of Sammy Hamza brings a community together

Every now and then we get reminded of the power of community and how every life impacts another. Thursday night at Bennett Middle School was one such occasion, as students, staff and parents showed up to pay tribute to the late Sammy Hamza. The 12-year-old that passed away from leukemia on Jan. 30.

The event, all put together by some of Hamza’s former schoolmates who were part of a local Destination Imagination team.

“We’re doing this for Sammy,” said Grayson Nichols, one of the members of the team.

The event featured a 50-50 raffle, a silent auction, concessions, and a student versus staff basketball game. All the proceeds, including $5 for admission , are going to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Something Hamza’s father requested and something his classmates and friends helped make happen.

Losing a friend is tough for adults, but for these members of the Destination Imagination team, they were able to put their grieving aside to do something for Hamza.

“It was hard at first, but you feel better about yourself when you’re doing something to help his family and help his cause,” Nichols said.

Bennett Principal Liza Hastings had to face her students last week to deliver the news. 

“I cried when I told the students about it Monday morning and I think that’s important to see that that’s okay to have those feelings and it’s also okay to laugh and have fun to honor him that way,” Hastings said.

True to Hasting’s words, people did laugh and have fun at the even, as Hastings hit the quan and danced for the whole gym.

The crowd also celebrated, especially during the student staff game when Hamza’s little brother scored a basket as soon as he got in the game, wearing Hamza’s number 22 as tribute.

Hamza’s jersey was retired after the game and we’re told the school is considering putting a bench outside the school in his honor.