Success kid is actually Sam Griner, whose mother Laney took the photo in 2007
Justin Griner, father to the internet’s most famous, determined, focused child, has raised just shy of US$100k on Go Fund Me to fund a much-needed kidney transplant.
Diagnosed with kidney disease back in 2006 – shortly before the picture of his son Sam, then aged 11 months, went absolutely viral – Justin went through full kidney failure in 2009.
Having been on dialysis ever since he and his wife Laney, who actually took the wonderful picture of Sam, decided to look to the internet for help, setting up the crowdfunding target only a few days ago.
After seeking US$75k just more than a week ago, more than 4,700 well-wishers have now pledged US$98,500 for the cause.
“We’re the parents of ‘Success Kid’ for goodness sake,” said Laney in an interview with the Daily Dot last week. “If anyone understands the power, the mass, and goodwill of the internet, it’s those of us lucky to experience it daily.”
Justin’s mother apparently died from the same health issues as he has now got, so embracing the power of the internet seems a fitting way to seek aid.
Indeed the comments made by some of those pledging money portray the sentiment pretty clearly.
Brenden Payne said, “Remember, you are a kid of the internet. We will take care of you.”
Many of those who did not donate money seem to have signed up to see if they are a potential match for a kidney transplant.
Go internet.
Here are but a few great Success Kid memes:
