In the wee hours of the morning of November 10, 2020, I received a phone call that would change my life forever — and one that no mother ever wants to receive. At approximately 2:00 a.m., my son Ardoin (Audi) Lazarr Smith was gunned down on the front steps of his home just hours after returning from celebrating his 30th birthday.
In the months and years since his death, my life has changed drastically. I think a part of me died that day with my son. I’ve had to give up my career and dreams of becoming an airline pilot due to lack of concentration and inability to focus. I suffer from severe anxiety and depression. I worry and fear everything, constantly feeling anxious. My life is forever changed.
Audi was such a bright light and a joy to be around. As they say, to know him was to love him. His laugh was infectious, and his smile lit up the room.
Audi left behind two beautiful children who are the love and joy of my life, and for that I am truly thankful. #LLAudiCoop❤️ #forever30