Claudia's Story
Claudia Marie Smith was born on Friday, July 13th. She was welcomed home by her big brother, Cam, and big sister, Brittany.
She was a beautiful addition to our family and blended into our lives so effortlessly. She had a bubbly, easygoing personality, an adorable chubby little face, and a head full of golden curls.
I was stopped constantly by complete strangers, just so they could tell me how much she looked like a little cherub.
Losing a child is something no one can ever prepare for.
This is Claudia’s story.
A Life That Touched So Many
Although Claudia was only here for a short time, she touched the lives of everyone who knew her, and even those who never got the chance.
Three months after her passing, I became pregnant with our daughter, Annika, who was born just five days before Claudia’s first anniversary.
Annika was our gift..… sent from our little angel to help heal our broken hearts.
The Loss of a Child
Losing a child is something no one can ever truly prepare for.
It is a depth of pain that is hard to put into words- something that changes you forever.
We received so many messages after Claudia passed. Even today, we continue to feel blessed by them.
We all know that although Claudia may not be here physically, she has never truly left us.
Finding Connection
Over time, I began to notice things.
Not just small moments or subtle signs…but experiences that were unmistakable.
They weren’t something I had to search for or question. I knew exactly what they were.
To me, they were a continued connection to my daughter, and that brought a deep sense of comfort.
I learned to stay open to it…and to trust what I was being shown. That trust changed everything. And it continues to guide me.
Claudia Marie Smith
July 13, 2000 - August 23, 2001
One of those moments came years later, in a way I never could have imagined—right here in our hometown.
One of the ways we continue to keep Claudia’s spirit alive is through something simple, but meaningful.
People take her with them — to places all over the world — and share those moments with us.
If you're looking for support or a place to begin, you can continue here:
