Merrimack Resident Honored at New Hampshire Fisher Cats Game

Samantha Laflotte was recently honored as a recipient of the Bellwether Community Champion award, presented to individuals who have made a positive impact in the lives of others and their community. On July 5, she threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the New Hampshire Fisher Cats game and was celebrated during an on field, pregame presentation.

Diagnosed at 6 years old with Celiac’s disease, Laflotte is giving a whole new meaning to the expression, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.”  Early in 2013, Laflotte approached her mother about creating a walk in Merrimack to raise money for celiac research. Not knowing where to being, the family set up a lemonade stand in front of their home and raised $721. Laflotte’s dream eventually became a reality, and on May 10th, the first Making Tracks for Celiacs NH 5K Run/Walk took place at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. The event raised over $15,500 for the Center for Celiac Research & Treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Laflotte resides in Merrimack.