Motherhood: Then & Now – Susan’s Story

Motherhood looks different in every generation, but at its core it has always been a story of love, growth, and learning along the way. As we celebrate 50 years of Claris Health this Mother’s Day, we’re reflecting on the women who have shaped our story—each representing a different season of motherhood and a timeless thread of compassion.

Susan Tschudi’s journey with Claris spans more than three decades, beginning as a volunteer and growing into a trusted leader, including her time as President of the Board of Directors. But long before that, she was a mom simply trying to make it through each day.

When Susan looks back on her early years of motherhood, her reflection is refreshingly honest. “Most of the time, I was content to get through the day and keep order in my life,” she shares. It’s a reminder that motherhood isn’t always made up of big, defining moments. It’s made up of small, faithful ones.

Over time, those everyday moments shaped something deeper: wisdom.

One of the greatest lessons Susan learned was to release expectations and allow her children to become who they were created to be. What she once thought was “best” gave way to something better, watching her children step into their own unique, God-given gifts. In letting go, she discovered one of the greatest gifts a mother can give: the freedom to flourish.

Like many moms of her time, Susan remembers the quiet worries too. Waiting up late at night just to hear the front door close, wishing for the kind of connection and reassurance technology provides today. And yet, even without modern conveniences, what defined her motherhood was presence, perseverance, and care.

That experience profoundly shaped how she viewed the work of Claris.

Motherhood gave her a deep respect for the responsibility every woman carries. It taught her that dignity and kindness are not extras, they are essential. And it’s exactly what she sought to extend to every woman who walked through Claris’ doors. 

Susan’s story reminds us that while times change, the heart of motherhood does not.

“Most of the time, I was content to get through the day and keep order in my life. But over time, I learned to let my kids find their own path… When I could let go and let them shine, I gave them the biggest blessing they could ever receive. [Motherhood] also taught me to never take for granted the responsibility of being a mom, and to treat others with dignity and kindness.”

This Mother’s Day, we honor mothers like Susan, and we invite you to support moms today with the same compassion that shaped generations before.

Click here to join the Mother’s Day campaign and provide care for hundreds of moms who turn to Claris for help! And, follow along for more impactful stories!