Listen Live
97.9 The Beat Featured Video
CLOSE

If you’re addicted to the ‘Gram like the rest of us, then you know who Success Kid is.

Though he’s all grown up now, a 2007 baby photo of Sammy Griner on the beach went viral and made him an instant Instagram sensation. Now, he’s using his fame to help out his sick father, who he says needs a new kidney.

Us Magazine explains:

Justin Griner, 39, is in dire need of a kidney transplant, and his family has created a crowdfund account to help him raise the necessary funds for medical treatment.

The site goes on to say that they were “floored” by the meme’s mass appeal.

At first they were hesitant to bring up the meme, wanting the focus to be on Justin, but his wife, Laney Griner, decided that adding more attention to her husband’s condition could only help.

“We are just floored by the reaction,” the Florida resident told BuzzFeed News. “I know Success Kid is a popular meme, but around here he’s just our 8-year-old son, Sam. It’s amazing seeing what broad, worldwide appeal his image has, even so many years later.”

“He’s been this meme for as long as he can remember,” Laney continued. “But he gets embarrassed by it plenty, too.”

But his embarrassment won’t stop Sammy from helping out his father.

“His dad is his hero, he’d happily do anything to help him get better,” Laney said.

The family has already surpassed their goal of $75,000, but you can still help out by clicking here.

SOURCE: Us Magazine | PHOTO CREDIT: Getty, Instagram

#HelpForSuccessKid: Instagram Sensation Raises Money For Sick Father  was originally published on globalgrind.com