The unexpected death of midwife Janell Green Smith has reignited discussions about the alarming disparities in maternal health care affecting Black women in the United States. Green Smith, who dedicated her professional life to supporting Black mothers, died on January 1, 2024, following complications from childbirth. She was 31 years old and had recently welcomed her daughter, Eden, into the world.
Green Smith, who served as a certified nurse-midwife and held a doctorate in nursing practice, became a pillar of her community in Greenville, South Carolina. Her journey into midwifery was motivated by a desire to combat the troubling statistics surrounding Black maternal health, where the mortality rate is significantly higher than that of other racial groups. While the national average stands at 18.3 deaths per 100,000 live births, for Black women, this figure skyrockets to 47.4 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the latest data. Such statistics reflect systemic issues, including racism and disparities in healthcare access.
Green Smith’s pregnancy was a source of joy for her family. She and her husband, Daiquan Smith, celebrated their impending parenthood with a baby shower in the fall, surrounded by loved ones. Unfortunately, joy turned to tragedy on December 24, 2023, when Green Smith was admitted to the hospital due to severe preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy-related condition. She underwent an emergency C-section two days later, delivering her daughter prematurely at just 32 weeks.
Despite initial hopes following the birth, complications arose during her recovery. According to family members, Green Smith experienced a critical incident on December 29, which required emergency surgery. The situation deteriorated in the days following, culminating in her untimely death, a loss that has reverberated throughout her community and beyond.
Advocates Call for Change in Maternal Health Care
Green Smith’s tragic death has drawn attention from various health organizations, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reform. Prisma Health, the organization operating the hospital where Green Smith died, has faced scrutiny over the healthcare system’s failures. In a statement, Mark O’Halla, the President and CEO of Prisma Health, expressed sorrow over the loss of a “trusted colleague” and highlighted Green Smith’s dedication to her patients.
As details of her death spread, organizations such as the American College of Nurse-Midwives and the National Black Nurses Association issued statements condemning the persistent mortality rates for Black mothers. “Dr. Green Smith’s knowledge did not shield her. Her credentials did not protect her,” said the National Black Nurses Association in a public statement, emphasizing the systemic issues that continue to jeopardize the lives of Black women during childbirth.
The reality is stark; more than 80% of maternal deaths are classified as preventable, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Advocacy for change is essential as community leaders and healthcare professionals seek solutions to a crisis that has been acknowledged but not adequately addressed.
Nichole Wardlaw, Green Smith’s aunt and fellow midwife, expressed her grief and anger, stating, “We cannot continue to lose our women.” She described Green Smith as a fighter who was deeply committed to improving the experiences of Black mothers. Green Smith’s legacy is one of compassion, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of equity in maternal health care.
Community Response and Legacy
In the wake of Green Smith’s death, vigils were held in both Greenville and Charleston, drawing together midwives, former patients, and community members. The outpouring of grief highlights not only the personal loss felt by those who knew her but also the broader implications of her death. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Black women in maternity care.
Green Smith’s story is a poignant example of how systemic issues can affect even those who are trained to navigate the healthcare system. The lack of midwifery support during her own pregnancy illustrates the complexities and potential conflicts within the profession, revealing a troubling reality where even experienced professionals find themselves vulnerable.
As the community mourns, the call for accountability and change grows louder. Advocates emphasize the need for comprehensive reforms that address the root causes of maternal health disparities. The tragic outcome of Green Smith’s experience underscores the urgent need for systemic change in how Black mothers are cared for during pregnancy and childbirth.
Green Smith’s commitment to her community and her efforts to advocate for better maternal health outcomes will not be forgotten. Her legacy serves as a rallying cry for change, urging healthcare systems to reevaluate their practices and prioritize the safety and well-being of all mothers.
