Clark Smith's Challenge of a Lifetime

"There’s no whining in lacrosse"

If you know Clark, you won’t be surprised that is one of his favorite sayings as a coach. And it sums up his own quiet, never-give-up attitude and determination. He’s now facing an unimaginable challenge himself. 

The Clark Smith medical fund is being created after Clark suffered a heart attack on May 18, 2022. Since his collapse, he has been transferred twice and is now at Mass General Hospital in Boston. He has undergone open-heart surgery with two bypasses, several procedures including implanting an Impella pump, cardiac ablation, and two Cath procedures to put in a total of 9 stents, he has been on ECMO life support, and endured weeks of serious complications.

It was determined that prior to his collapse he had a damaging viral infection, pneumonia, and advanced coronary artery disease, which all contributed to heart failure. Clark's course has been complicated and there have been numerous events resulting in cardioversion shocks to bring him back. This week he had a BiVAD assist device placed and is now being evaluated for a heart transplant. For the past 6 weeks, Clark has been treated in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Mass General and will have a very long journey of recovery and rehabilitation before and after the transplant. 

Many from their community met Clark through his dedication to the youth lacrosse program. Coach Smith was a favorite with the players. He worked tirelessly to grow the program and donated countless hours as a coach and behind the scenes. When their boys reached high school, their family’s involvement continued with Kim becoming President of the Booster Club. Together they pushed to elevate the success of the teams and provide the athletes with wonderful memories. 

Some of you may know Clark from his childhood days when he grew up in Vermont. You may know him through his years at Norwich University, or his current Home Depot employment. And still, others may not even know him personally, but be acquainted through his children; Amanda, Mason, and Hunter. Clark loves outdoor activities and has made many memories while camping, fishing, traveling, and gathering with his motorcycle buddies. He is known for his wry humor, gregarious laugh, and stoic presence. He would be humbled that so many are willing to help in his time of need. 

If you would like to assist with the family's financial burden, any donation would be greatly appreciated. All funds raised will go directly to Clark’s medical costs and related expenses for Kim and their children. Kim has had to cut back on work in order to be with Clark and we can imagine the expenses related to driving to/from Boston nearly every day, not to mention the overwhelming medical bills that are accumulating. 

On behalf of the Smith family, we appreciate the outpouring of love, prayers, and support shown over the past few weeks and undoubtedly, in the months to come. They pray that someday Clark will be back on the sidelines, cheering for Hunter’s Bentley lacrosse team and enjoying time with his family.

Please help this amazing family through this profoundly difficult time. 
Thank you, 
Elizabeth Kester &  Shanon Gruchot