On April 8, 2005, the former Miss California Junior National Teenager Samantha Palumbo was involved in a near-fatal car accident that changed her life forever. Against all odds she survived the brutal force of a wooden log pole that came crashing through the windshield. But the ever-spirited, determined young beauty queen has made a remarkable recovery thus far from the severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) she suffered. Her example of strength and courage in the face of adversity is inspiring as she continues on her journey of recovery.

Samantha always had high expectations of herself. Whether it was in school as an honors student, on the sidelines as a spirited cheerleader, in her community as a caring volunteer, or on stage as an example of grace and poise, achieving anything less than excellence was never an option for Samantha.

Realizing that the only disability in life is a bad attitude, Samantha's greatest ability is her positive attitude, which is the foundation of her successes to come.

We hope that no matter what challenge in life may come your way, you will find inspiration in Samantha's story of survival to be positive, stay strong, and celebrate life!