A Midwife Who Helped Others—But Lost Her Own Life
*Dr. Janell Green-Smith spent her career fighting for safe births. A certified nurse-midwife (CNM) and doctor of nursing practice (DNP), she supported families in South Carolina and worked tirelessly to reduce racial disparities in care.
But in a tragic twist, she died shortly after giving birth to her first child in early 2026. Her death has left the midwifery and medical communities heartbroken—and furious. Because if someone like Dr. Green-Smith isn’t safe, who is?
Tributes Pour In for the Compassionate, Brilliant Advocate
Dr. Green-Smith was only in her early 30s. Her colleagues described her as deeply compassionate and tireless, a fierce advocate for birthing people—especially Black women, who face staggering risks during pregnancy.
The American College of Nurse-Midwives called her passing “devastating,” saying it’s a painful reminder of systemic failures in maternal care. It’s the kind of loss that feels personal to anyone who’s worked beside her—or been helped by her.
U.S. Maternal Death Rates Are Falling—But Not for Black Women
According to 2025 CDC data, the U.S. maternal mortality rate overall declined to 18.6 deaths per 100,000 births. But for non-Hispanic Black women, it remains dangerously high at 50.3—over three times the rate of white women.
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This isn’t about access or education. Black women with college degrees still face higher risks than less-educated white women. Experts say racism—not race—is the risk factor, with systemic bias leading to delayed care, dismissed symptoms, and fatal oversights.
Yes, Even Black Midwives Aren’t Safe from the System
Dr. Green-Smith had credentials, expertise, and lived experience. She had seen the system fail others. And yet, it failed her too. That’s the cruel irony and the terrifying truth: being on the inside doesn’t make you immune.
Her death echoes that of Dr. Shalon Irving, a CDC epidemiologist who died after giving birth in 2017. Both women were highly educated. Both knew the risks. And both were lost to a crisis they had spent their lives trying to fix.
What’s Driving the Black Maternal Mortality Crisis?
Experts cite several overlapping factors, including:
- Systemic racism and bias: Black women are more likely to have their pain or symptoms dismissed by providers.
- Chronic stress: Years of discrimination can worsen conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
- Lower-quality care: Black women often give birth in underfunded hospitals with limited resources.
- Structural barriers: Transportation, housing, and access to care all play a role.
And the most tragic fact? Up to 80% of maternal deaths are preventable. For Black women, it’s closer to 60%—a statistic that should outrage everyone.
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Midwifery Community Grieves—and Demands Change
Dr. Green-Smith’s passing has shaken the midwifery world. Many are sharing stories of her kindness and mentorship, and using the moment to push for change. More Black doulas, midwives, and OBs are speaking out, urging systemic reforms.
Advocacy groups are calling for: improved data tracking, extended postpartum care, expanded Medicaid coverage, and real consequences for providers who ignore patient concerns. Her death cannot be in vain.
Her Legacy Lives on in Every Life She Touched
Dr. Green-Smith leaves behind a community of patients, peers, and future midwives who looked up to her. Her legacy is one of compassion, brilliance, and unshakable commitment to justice.
She should be here, raising her child and continuing to help others. Instead, we’re mourning another Black woman lost to a preventable tragedy. Rest in power, Dr. Green-Smith. Your fight continues.
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