Mom Community Rallies to Support Somer Smith

by Glenni Lorick, IBCLC

I was sitting in the dentist office when I got a text from Katie Bowers this morning telling me that Jake Smith had been killed in a tragic accident this morning as he was doing his job for the Alabama Department of Transportation. My audible gasp of shock brought me several interesting looks. Somer Smith has been an integral part of the ANM mama community for the last couple of years, and I just couldn't begin to imagine the incredible pain and shock she must be feeling.

I want to ask everyone who reads this to take a moment to pray for Somer and their three precious children right now and in the days and weeks to come. Jake's funeral will be Sunday in Tuscumbia. As the reality of what has happened today begins to set in, Somer, who is always so willing to help others, will need her village to surround and support her.

Fortunately, her village is already doing that. Katie set up a You Caring page for Somer which raised over $750 in just a few hours. Apparently someone else has created a Go Fund Me Account; however, this account has not been verified by the family. Please only make donations to the verified You Caring account referenced above. All of the money will go directly to Somer to help her with whatever needs she has.  Jessica Mays set up a Take Them a Meal site so that Somer will have one less thing to worry about in the coming days and weeks.

If you would like to donate size 5 diapers or gas cards, food cards or gift cards to the family, you may drop them at one of 3 locations across the valley: A Nurturing Moment (7540 Memorial Parkway SW, Ste. H, Huntsville, 35802) Advance Auto (871 Hwy 72, Athens) or Salon 53 (8130 AL 53, Toney, 35773).

When people bring sunshine and blessing into the lives of those around them like Somer does, it is just a natural response to want to bless them back. The ANM community loves Somer and will be here for whatever she needs. I have cried some today and prayed a lot. I've cried because of the deep ache of loss that Somer is feeling, because of the sad truth that the twins will miss out on so many memories with their Daddy, and because it just hurts so much to think about this tragic loss. But every tear has been accompanied by a prayer that the God of all grace will bring comfort and peace in the midst of the pain. I love you, Somer!