Why I Love Sam the Cuppy Cake Boy: Rare Kidney Condition Doesn't Dampen His Spirits

Flipping thru the tv, I stopped on the Tyra Banks show, when I heard adorable litlte Sam lip singing to an old CUPPY CAKE song. On the screen, was a very short, pudgy cheeked boy. Something was not right, I could tell by the pudginess in his face; but he was smiling.

I did a little research and from the CBS Doctor Show (Dr. Sears --you may have seen him on Dr. Phil) found out that Sam was born normal just like any other healthy baby boy.

Things took a tragic twist when Sam was only three years old, he woke up one day with puffiness all over his body. After many tests, a kidney biopsy revealed that his own immune system was attacking his kidneys.

Officially the condition is called IGM Nephropathy. Medically speaking the Nephrotic Syndrome causes urinary protein wasting and renal failure. Steroids like predazone give him life, but have their own awful side effects. Not only stunting his growth, but making his body swell, as you can tell by his face.

Practically speaking: Antibodies are supposed to attack the viruses in one's system, but in Sam's. they are attacking his kidneys. He's been living with this for six years, but that didn't stop him from making his adorable litlte Cuppy Cake Song Video which you can find on youtube.

Though this disease is rare, and often labeled as incurable, doctors feel there may be other options. On the Doctor Show, they were kind enough to find specialitsts in Nephropathy to consult with Sam and his mom. I hope for Sam's sake, that something can be found.

When you're having a bad day, let little Sam be an inspiration to you; though his days living with this condition are mostly difficult, he manages to smile and make others smile too.

Author note: I extend my prayers and wishes to his family, in hopes that medicine will soon give some relief.