At Don’t Fear Me, we believe stories have the power to reshape the world’s perception of Down syndrome. One of those stories belongs to Sam Piazza, lovingly known as “Sam the Man.” His life is more than remarkable—it is transformative.

Sam was born with Down syndrome, but he never allowed that to define him. Instead, he became a symbol of courage, inclusion, and joy for his community in Tampa, Florida, and beyond. In 2009, while attending Gaither High School, Sam made history by being elected Homecoming King. It wasn’t just about a crown or a title—it was about breaking barriers. His classmates didn’t see a diagnosis; they saw a leader, a friend, and someone whose heart drew people together.

After high school, Sam carried that same light into every corner of his life. Today, Sam continues to shine that same light. He works at PDQ in Carrollwood, where he is known as an “employer’s dream”—hard-working, reliable, and always bringing smiles to customers and coworkers. He also volunteers with Best Buddies and Gigi’s Playhouse, where he serves as a Best Buddies Ambassador. Sam advises on inclusion with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and actively participates in community outreach programs. Everywhere he goes, he makes people feel seen, valued, and loved.

His story grew so impactful that filmmaker Renee Warmack created the award-winning documentary Because of Sam, a film that shares his journey with the world. What started as one man’s story has blossomed into a movement. Today, the film is used in schools, workplaces, and organizations as a training tool for inclusion, teaching others to see ability, not limitation. You can watch the trailer for Because of Sam here: https://becauseofsamthemovie.com/movie-trailers/

To find out more about the movie, visit the Because of Sam website.

Sam’s journey reminds us of the heart behind Don’t Fear Me. He showed the world that Down syndrome is not something to fear—it’s something to embrace. His life is the proof that when people with Down syndrome are seen for who they truly are—capable, loving, and extraordinary—they change communities, workplaces, and the world itself.

Sam’s story has touched hearts and made headlines:

Tampa Bay Times: How the documentary ‘Because of Sam’ changed workplace inclusiveness – shows how the film is now being used as a workplace training tool for inclusion.
WUSF Public Media: Sam The Man: Tampa Documentary Chronicles Life With Down Syndrome – covers Sam’s life story and the excitement around the film’s premiere.
Best Buddies International: “Because of Sam” Documentary Film Highlights Best Buddies Ambassador Sam Piazza’s Life Journey with Down Syndrome – highlights Sam’s role as a Best Buddies Ambassador and community advocate.
ABC Action News: PDQ employee with Down Syndrome featured in documentary – shares how Sam’s work ethic and personality brighten lives at his workplace and beyond.
83 Degrees Media: WEDQ airs local TV doc “Because of Sam” in honor of World Down Syndrome Day – covers the film’s debut on PBS and its celebration of inclusion.
Tampa Bay Times (Movies): “Because of Sam” movie documents a life with Down syndrome – explores Sam’s reflections on overcoming bullying and embracing life fully.

Because of Sam, we believe.

Because of Sam, we dream.

Because of Sam, we know that Down syndrome is not to be feared—it is to be celebrated.

Sam Piazza - “Sam the Man”