UPDATE: The family of Susan “Suzie” Smith, a beloved medical flight nurse tragically killed in a helicopter crash on Highway 50 last month, is navigating their first Thanksgiving without her, bringing a profound sense of loss to the holiday season. As families gather across the country, the Smith family is using this painful moment to honor Suzie’s legacy.
Gabriel Smith, Suzie’s son, expressed the emotional weight this holiday carries for them. “We are holding up the best we can right now,” he commented. “My mom prepared us for a lot for this.” The family gathered for Thanksgiving on November 26, 2023, marking a poignant moment for many first responders in attendance.
Suzie’s absence was deeply felt at the table. “She was always quiet but loud at just the right opportunity moment,” Gabriel recalled, sharing a light-hearted memory of his mother tossing rolls across the table during family meals. “There were Hawaiian rolls flying down the table this year as well,” he added, reflecting on how they tried to keep her spirit alive in their traditions.
To honor Suzie’s passion for nursing and community service, the Smith family recently launched the Our Angel That Flies Foundation. The organization aims to continue Suzie’s mission by planning medical trips to Central America and establishing a scholarship for aspiring nurses. “She had a passion for, as she put it, mentoring the young bloods,” Gabriel affirmed, highlighting the impact she had on many young women in the field.
As they navigate this challenging season, Gabriel urges others to cherish their connections. “At any moment, life can be cut short, so don’t wait to have that hard conversation. Don’t wait to say I’m sorry,” he advised. His poignant message resonates deeply this Thanksgiving, encouraging everyone to express love and support for one another.
The Smith family is not just remembering Suzie; they are actively keeping her mission alive. They invite others to join this cause by supporting their foundation, which aims to foster connections and provide opportunities for future generations in healthcare.
In the spirit of giving, Gabriel encourages people to reach out to neighbors who may feel lonely this holiday season, embodying the warmth that Suzie always provided. “If you have extra, reach out to a neighbor that might be lonely, be that family for them,” he said.
As the Smith family holds tightly to the memories Suzie gifted them, they also remind us of the importance of love, connection, and community during this time of year. For more information on their foundation and to donate, visit their website.
