Sam's Story

THE FILM, THE TALKS, AND THE LEGACY THAT CHANGED THE WORLD.

Sam Berns was 17 years old when he took the stage at TEDxMidAtlantic and told the world his philosophy for a happy life. He had Progeria. He had already inspired an Emmy Award-winning HBO documentary. And he had no idea his words would go on to reach over 100 million people in 38 languages, becoming one of the most-watched TED talks in history. Sam passed away in January 2014, but his story, his voice, and the mission he inspired, continues.

100 M+

cross platform
views

#2

most viewed TEDx talk

38

languages
translated

1

EMMY^®Award

The Film: Life According to Sam

An unforgettable, award-winning HBO documentary about the power of hope, love, and determination. Starting with its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2013, Life According to Sam captivated audiences worldwide. The film follows Sam Berns, his parents, and PRF's relentless search for treatments and a cure, showing the world what it means to live fully in the face of the seemingly impossible.

Stream the film

Awards & reviews

"This is a must-see film. It will make you laugh. It will make you cry. And, most importantly, I think it will motivate people to want to do more to help."

— Robert Kraft, New England Patriots owner, whose friendship with Sam and admiration for the film inspired a $500,000 matching gift to fund PRF's mission

THE TALKS

Sam Berns: "My Philosophy for a Happy Life"
TEDxMidAtlantic · October 2013

In one of the most-watched TED talks ever recorded, Sam shares his principles for living a full and happy life, regardless of the obstacles in front of you. Translated into 38 languages and viewed by over 100 million people, Sam's words have moved celebrities, athletes, world leaders, and everyday people to tears, to action, and to a deeper appreciation for what it means to live a happy and fulfilling life. As Sam says: "Being brave isn't supposed to be easy. For me, I feel it's the key way to keep moving forward."

Watch on Ted.com

Dr. Scott Berns: "A Tribute to Sam — and a Thank You to the TEDx Community"
TEDxMidAtlantic · September 2015

Sam's father, Dr. Scott Berns, took the same TEDx stage two years later to celebrate his son — wearing the shirt he wore to every Dave Matthews Band concert they attended together. A deeply moving tribute that reminds us why PRF's work is so personal, and so urgent.

Watch on YouTube

Dr. Leslie Gordon: "The Difference that Makes a Difference"
TEDx Charlottesville · November 2013

Sam’s mom, and PRF's Medical Director and co-founder shares her "secret sauce" for making the impossible possible — the same formula behind every clinical breakthrough PRF has achieved. A masterclass in how passion, focus, and refusal to accept limits can change the world for children and young adults with Progeria.

Watch on YouTube