Adriana Smith: A Chance at Life

In a story marked by heartbreak, hope, and the profound dignity of life, 31-year-old Adriana Smith—an Atlanta nurse and mother of one—gave birth to her second son, Chance, after being declared brain dead in February 2025. Her family named the new baby Chance. It is significant because a chance at life was given. Her body was kept on life support to preserve her unborn child until he could be delivered via emergency C-section.

Though Chance was born prematurely, weighing just 1 lb 13 oz, his life is a testimony to courage and grace in the face of overwhelming odds.

The Decision to Sustain Life

Adriana collapsed at home after complaining of severe headaches. Doctors diagnosed her with catastrophic blood clots that led to brain death at just eight weeks pregnant. There has been controversy over whether Georgia’s heartbeat law GA Code § 16-12-141, which prohibits abortion after a fetal heartbeat is detected (typically around six weeks) or Georgia's law regarding withdrawing life support for pregnant patients GA Code § 31-32-9, which indicates that doctors are prohibited from withdrawing life support from pregnant patients unless both (1) the fetus is not viable and (2) the patient has an advanced directive explicitly requesting the withdrawal of life-sustaining measures was the reason medical teams kept her body functioning to allow her unborn child to grow.

Her family struggled with the decision, describing it as a legal and emotional burden. But through it all, baby Chance continued to grow—each day in the womb a hard-fought victory.

A Premature Miracle

On June 13, 2025, baby Chance was delivered at approximately 6 months' gestation via C-section. Weighing just under two pounds, he now fights for life in a neonatal intensive care unit. Though born prematurely and critically fragile, his condition is described as stable—a miracle many thought would never come to pass.

This tiny life, born out of tragic circumstances, now carries a legacy of survival and love.

Grief and Grace: A Family’s Double Journey

Adriana’s mother, April Newkirk, and her family have faced the agonizing task of mourning a daughter while welcoming a grandson. “I’m her mother. I shouldn’t be burying my daughter,” April said through tears. “But I know she gave life to Chance, and now we will do everything we can for him."

Adriana was removed from life support on June 17, 2025, just days after what would have been her 31st birthday.

The Heart of the Pro-Life Conversation

This story doesn’t fit neatly into political boxes. Pro-life supporters see Adriana’s continued life support as a heroic act that gave baby Chance a fighting chance at life. Critics argue it’s an example of laws overriding a family’s ability to make painful, personal decisions.

But one truth remains: a baby is alive today—born prematurely yet thriving—because of the life his mother sustained, even in death. Something good came out of something that was meant to bring death.

Whether by personal choice, divine providence, or legal mandate, Adriana’s body became a sanctuary for her son. And Chance’s life is a reminder that even in darkness, life finds a way.

Rest in peace, Adriana Smith. Your legacy lives on through baby Chance—a child born too soon, yet not without purpose.