Running for Sam

Friends Turn Miles into Meaning

For five Upper St. Clair High School students, this year’s Pittsburgh Marathon Relay was about much more than crossing a finish line.

Enzo Pantano, Nate Del, Anthony Mastro, Sam Cranganu, and Makis Sobel-Drum—known collectively as the “Lumberjacks”—took on the challenge in honor of their friend Sam Levine, a 2024 Upper St. Clair graduate who passed away in December after a courageous battle with DIPG.

Sam was a dedicated athlete, loyal friend, and source of inspiration to everyone around him. His strength and resilience left a lasting impression on those who knew him, and his friends wanted to honor that legacy in a way that reflected the perseverance he demonstrated throughout his journey.

“Sam kept going months on end,” said Makis Sobel-Drum. “If he can do that, then I can keep going in the marathon relay.”

The run was especially meaningful because of the relationship the students share with Sam’s father, Steve Levine, a teacher at Fort Couch Middle School and former cross-country coach. Through countless practices and miles together, Coach Levine helped shape the group long before they decided to run in Sam’s honor.

“That is originally how we got our close bond with him as a group—through running,” Enzo Pantano shared.

Inspired by Sam’s courage, the team set out to raise awareness and funds for the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation, helping support critical DIPG/DMG research and families facing this devastating diagnosis. Their goal was ambitious: raise $5,000 and spread the message that even the hardest challenges can be faced with determination.

“Just to raise awareness and to spread the message that we can do hard things, just like Sam did,” said Sam Cranganu. “He persevered. And we felt like running a marathon would represent that.”

For Anthony Mastro, participating was an opportunity to give back.

“Running this marathon is such an honor,” he said. “I was really happy to be able to contribute my part, help raise money for DIPG, and support Mr. Levine.”

For Steve Levine and his family, the gesture was deeply moving.

“To honor Sam and to keep his memory alive, I really don’t have the words to describe it,” he said. “We were humbled. We were honored.”

While the race may be over, the impact continues. Every mile run and every dollar raised helps advance research and bring hope to families facing DIPG. Most importantly, the Lumberjacks are ensuring that Sam’s legacy lives on—not only through memories, but through action.

One mile at a time, they are carrying his courage forward.