I'm sure you can do it. I would add some
'over the top' praise and some really, really GOOD treats (like cooked chicken breast or cheese or something) when she pees on the pad.
(Which you are already doing as I go back and read your post again)
I personally found it easier to train a dog to go outdoors but other folks have had a lot of success with the pads and sometimes the situation requires a pee pad.
I have nothing to add but with your focus - I'm sure you can help Samantha!