Samantha Sussman
Posted by Love Hope Strength on Jul 4, 2008
I grew up in Cherry Hill, NJ, right outside of Philadelphia,. I attended high school in Cherry Hill before making the big and life changing decision to go to school in Denver, in hopes of getting away from the East coast for a bit. I graduated one year ago with a degree in International Studies and worked for a lobbying organization for a year. About a month ago I decided to leave my job because I felt my ultimate goal of “saving the world,” wasn’t really being met. Right now I am trying to figure out how to achieve that goal while also working on my language skills (I’m still trying to master Hebrew). I also started a jewelry line a few years ago that I am continually working to expand. When I am not working as Personal Assistant during the day, you can find me cooking dinner for my friends, taking photographs, camping, checking out concerts, and looking for any way I can travel the world.
The reason I have decided I need to be a part of Peru Rocks is Elizabeth Schmerling. Liz, my first cousin, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer in September 2003 She was smart, talented and beautiful. Elizabeth had just moved to Philadelphia to attend the University of Pennsylvania and was pursuing a graduate degree in Architecture when she was diagnosed. She fought for almost two years, but she lost her battle with brain cancer in the Spring 2005. Experiencing the death of my cousin was a critical moment in my life because it forced me to realize cancer and tragedy can effect anyone at any time. I think it is important to live life to the fullest at any age because you never know what the next day might bring. It is only fitting to bring Liz along on this trek since Machu Picchu is an architectural wonder. I will be trekking in honor and memory of Liz and will be carrying a flag with her name on it.
