Smith County commissioners formally declared October 3, 2026, as Suzy Belle Day, honoring a baby girl who survived 14 days after receiving a fatal diagnosis. The proclamation was made during Tuesday’s commissioners court meeting, recognizing Suzanne Isabelle Bardwell, known as Suzy Belle, who was born on September 19, 2025.
Suzy Belle survived two weeks with a Vein of Galen malformation, a rare and abnormal arrangement of blood vessels in the brain. Her parents, Josh and Jennifer Bardwell, were present in the courtroom as the commissioners adopted the resolution to establish the special day. Mr. Bardwell stated that the couple pursued specialized medical care for their daughter in Dallas.
Pct. 3 Commissioner J. Scott Herod read the formal declaration during the meeting. The resolution formally established October 3, 2026, as Suzy Belle Day through its adoption by the Commissioners Court of Smith County. The declaration acknowledges the child’s survival and the impact of her story.
Josh Bardwell's former colleagues from Smith County Emergency Services District 2 were also in attendance at the courtroom, showing support for the family. Mr. Bardwell now helps lead a newly established aviation program under the Texas Forest Service.
During their daughter's time in the hospital, the Bardwells noted that the only toy she had was a stuffed animal they affectionately call 'Suzy Sloth.' Jennifer Bardwell explained that this toy was "the only toy that she had while she was in the hospital." Josh Bardwell added that within the first week, Suzy Sloth became the one item that would pacify their daughter when she held it. The stuffed animal has remained a significant item for the family since then.
Mr. Bardwell continues to carry Suzy Sloth with him, even bringing it on his fire assignments. The toy has traveled extensively with the family, reaching destinations such as Florida, London, and South Dakota. Mr. Bardwell mentioned that Suzy Sloth "gets bath after the fact" following its trips on fire assignments, a testament to its constant presence and the memories it holds.
The Bardwells indicated that Suzy Belle’s medical case is contributing to medical research efforts worldwide. Her journey, though brief, provides valuable insights into the Vein of Galen malformation. The designation of Suzy Belle Day by the Smith County Commissioners Court aims to recognize her brief life and the lasting contributions her story is making to understanding and treating rare medical conditions. On October 3, 2026, Smith County residents will observe this day in her honor, commemorating a life that continues to influence global medical understanding.
