The Assumption University PA Program faculty have a special relationship with American Samoa and the LBJ Tropical Medical Center. While previously working together at a different PA Program, many of their students were fortunate enough to complete clinical rotations there. Assumption PA Program Director Christopher Ferreira, PA-C has visited American Samoa seven times, most recently in 2024; in April 2023, he spent one month volunteering in the ENT Clinic and Emergency Department at LBJ TMC. Assumption PA Director of Clinical Education Jeffery Giarnese, PA-C has visited twice and has volunteered in the LBJ TMC Emergency Department. Our new faculty member, Rebecca Hassel, PA-C, Assumption PA Director of Didactic Education, has visited the island and LBJ TMC back in 2020. More to that story below!
In January 2020, the Sokimi family welcomed quadruplets – the first in American Samoa’s history – to their already large family for a total of eleven children! This family, like the island itself and LBJ TMC, holds a special place in our hearts, especially since our former students were on clinical rotations at the time, and two students, Martin and Jenny, were there to help deliver the babies. As soon as they were born, our students lead a fundraising effort back in the States, and in February 2020, PA Ferreira and PA Hassel personally delivered the monetary donations plus much-needed supplies including diapers, baby formula, and toys. In April 2023, Chris again visited the Sokimi family and was glad to see the then three-year-old quadruplets, their seven siblings, parents, and other family members! Most recently, in February 2024, PA Ferreira returned to the island and included a visit to the Sokimi family, grateful for the ability to deliver the results of another fundraiser – thanks to many of you – to their large and growing family. Assumption University PA students will soon be on the island completing clinical rotations at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center.
Now, the Sokimi family desperately needs our help. In March of 2025, just a few weeks ago, Sokimi Sokimi, father to eleven children and husband to their mom, Filomena Sokimi, passed away suddenly. The Assumption University PA Student Society is raising funds for this family during this difficult and sad time. Certainly, the Sokimi family will be able to make use of these funds to pay for food, clothing, and all of life’s expenses.
The Assumption University PA Program and Assumption University R.K. Ferguson PA Student Society are coordinating this fundraising effort to benefit the Sokimi family in American Samoa. Any amount you can donate will be much appreciated. Thank you for your consideration!
Organized by Christopher Ferreira
Worcester, MA