Women Who Womaze: Claire Wineland
When I think of Claire Wineland, I think of the beauty in humanity.
I learned about Claire a few years ago on Justin Baldoni’s “My Last Days,” an uplifting documentary series about life, as told by courageous people living with a terminal illness. After finishing Claire’s episode, I immediately watched as many of her videos as I could possibly find. Her joy, purpose, and truth were powerful beyond words, and her message is exactly what this world needs right now.
Claire lived with cystic fibrosis (CF) her entire life. As an author, YouTuber, speaker, activist, and philanthropist, Claire traveled the world sharing her story and inspiring millions to live lives they could be proud of. When she was 13 years old, Claire founded Claire’s Place Foundation, Inc, a non-profit organization providing support to children and families affected by cystic fibrosis.
Claire profoundly changed the direction of my life. She taught me that we each have the ability to turn our lives into a work of art — to do something that truly matters with our time here. Watching her videos gave me the motivation that I needed to follow my dream of creating Womaze with my sisters and my mom. I am forever grateful for the impact she has made on my life. When Claire passed away last year at the age of 21, it felt like I had lost a friend. I know that so many people felt that way. She was and continues to be a gift to us all.
I feel fiercely grateful that Womaze has the chance to collaborate with Claire’s Place Foundation to bring you this channel honoring Claire. In this channel, you’ll find videos of Claire that have changed my life and hear from Claire’s extraordinary mom, Melissa. You’ll also find information on Claire’s Place Foundation and how you can support the incredible work they’re doing.
My hope is that through Claire’s videos you are reminded of the beauty in the messiness of life and the blessings hidden in the challenges we each experience. I know without a doubt that you’ll each be left with a piece of Claire shining within you along your journey.
All my love,
Hannah