Kamryn Sanamo, a sports medicine and exercise physiology major and member of Rice University’s Martel College, died Thursday evening following a battle with brain cancer. She was 21 years old.
Born in Louisiana and raised in Katy, Texas, Kamryn was especially interested in studying medicine after experiencing the life-changing effects of quality health care from an early age.
She underwent surgery to repair a 9 mm hole in the fascia of her right shin when she was in 7th grade, and she also underwent two lumpectomies to remove fibroadenomas and had an appendectomy before the age of 18.
“I decided to become a doctor because of the amazing doctors I’ve crossed paths with,” she told Katy Magazine for an October 2021 article that chronicled her courageous spirit throughout the medical hardships.
After graduating third in her class from Katy High School in 2019, Kamryn matriculated to Rice on a full scholarship and earned a spot in the prestigious Joint Admission Medical Program, which guaranteed her acceptance into any Texas medical school upon graduation.
Kamryn's mother, Dusty, shared a touching memory of her daughter’s Owl pride and recalled Kamryn’s beaming smile when she recently received her Rice graduation ring. “(Kamryn) loved learning and was looking forward to graduating at the end of this semester,” she said.
Her life was inspirational for the campus community as well. Daniel Domingues da Silva, associate professor of history and magister at Martel College, said Kamryn “was a terrific student, a great friend and a fantastic human being.” Likewise, Martel College Coordinator Bonnie Stroman recounted the reciprocal affection between Kamryn and the university, noting that Kamryn was voted Homecoming queen last fall.
President Reginald DesRoches also added his memories of Kamryn, saying "She was a bright light destined for great things. She was taken from us much too soon; however, Rice was lucky to have her for as long as we did and will always remember and honor her contribution to our community."
Kamryn is survived by her mother, brothers Karson and Karter, father Trent Sanamo, grandparents Warren and Liz Sanamo and Keith and Torey Trosclair, godfather Ben Sanamo and wife Brittany Sanamo, cousins Jake and Mia Sanamo, and godmother Jensen Faucheux. A memorial service was held Jan. 8 in Katy.
In a message to the Rice community, Dean of Undergraduates Bridget Gorman wrote, “For our students, remember that counselors in the Wellbeing Office and the Rice Counseling Center are available to assist anyone who may need support. During business hours, you can stop by their offices without an appointment, or you can contact them anytime (day or night) at 713-348-3311. Staff and faculty seeking support are encouraged to contact Rice’s Employee Assistance Program at 713-500-3327.”