The last few months of Anna Nicole Smith’s life were marked with both happiness and tragedy. She welcomed her daughter, Dannielynn Birkhead, on September 7, 2006. Three days later, Anna Nicole’s son, Daniel Wayne Smith, passed away. Just five months after giving birth to her daughter and losing her son, Anna Nicole Smith passed away unexpectedly. Dannielynn’s father, Larry Birkhead, stepped into the world of single parenthood. He’s been a wonderful dad to Dannielynn and recently showed up with her at the Kentucky Derby. @accesshollywood Dannielynn Birkhead is speaking to being yourself and letting her authenticity shine ♬ original sound – Access Hollywood – Access Hollywood Dannielynn Birkhead Has Grown into a Lovely Young Woman Dannielynn and her dad spoke with  Access Hollywood ahead of the 152nd Kentucky Derby. The 19-year-old sported a short and funky hairstyle and a smile reminiscent of her late mother. She shared a sweet message about Anna Nicole with viewers. “I just want people to know that I love my mom, and she’s so beautiful. But I’m also my own person, obviously,” she said. “And I hope that’s a bit more clear now.” Dannielynn added that when it comes to her style and appearance, she knows who she wants to be and doesn’t care what others think. “I’m not going to let someone dictate what I want to do or who I want to be. Because life is short, and I think you should be who you want, no matter what,” she said. Seeing how poised Dannielynn is made many people proud of her father. “This is evidence of what a stellar job Larry did as a father. Well done Larry. What a sweet young lady,” someone wrote. “I love the way her father is protecting with his presence, but keeping his thoughts to himself and allowing his daughter to speak about learning to be herself,” another person added. We know that her mom would beam if she could see who her daughter is. “Anna Nicole would be so proud seeing her legacy shine through Dannielynn today,” a fan shared. This story’s featured image is by Barry King/WireImage