Just finished the read, thanks for posting Cam.
I was intrigued by this story from the first time I heard about it. Just solo flying a helicopter seems like an adventure in itself, but coupled with the risk of what he was doing it really sounds like the ultimate adventure.
Sam's background is very interesting, and makes me feel like he really lived his life to the fullest, capturing every passionate moment for what it was.
The article briefly mentions the film making industry and the role of professional athletes. I have watched for several years now as riders rapidly progress to the upper level and then gradually lose their edge as new guys are constantly emerging. What used to seem like the best job in the world is starting to seem pretty silly to me. We all commit a certain amount of time to learning to do a thing in hopes that we can carry it forward into the future, but when the thing is so risky and physically age dependant I've started to question where do these people go once their ability has expired? What comes next? What do you do when your life's work is done? This story atleast offers one avenue for that question, from the perspective of someone who lived for new experiences but was in search of a greater reward than being famous.
Cheers for a life lived in the moment, taking chances, being yourself. Rest easy.