This post is a mixed archive of posts from my public LinkedIn and private Facebook.
This week has been great, but also quite bittersweet.
On Tuesday, I had my last patient visit to Children’s of Alabama with the doctor and care team that I’ve been with since I was a baby. At the end of the appointment, my doctor stood, shook my hand, and commended me for the work I do as an advocate. I’ll still be part of the Children’s family, especially as I continue my work with Extra Life, the streaming-based donation platform that I donate my time to, but it was striking that I’m no longer a patient.
Then, on Wednesday, I was honored to be presented with the James L. Brown Free Enterprise Scholarship at the Gadsden State Community College Wallace Drive Honor’s Day Ceremony by Elizabeth McGlaughn. I received the scholarship as a result of the work I do as an advocate through Derek Schmitz: Advocacy.
I never considered that my advocacy, what I thought to be just a “thing” I did, was a business venture worth recognition. I often say that advocacy is an exhausting profession with lackluster recognition, as we are often the unnamed people who get the balls rolling to effect change. It felt amazing to be recognized for the work I put in. Thank you again to Elizabeth McGlaughn, Catherine Bailey, Pamela Curry, and countless others for always believing in me and encouraging me to keep going.
Also on Wednesday, I was formally inducted into Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society as a member of the Rho Rho Chapter by Ms. Melissa Davis and finalized my Paralegal Student Membership with the American Bar Association.
On the heels of these achievements, I proudly released an updated copy of my CV as I prepare to begin seeking out Paralegal internships for the Spring of 2025. I would be honored to join your team.
I’m so grateful for all of the opportunities I’ve been presented with, especially considering my parents were told I’d never walk or talk when I was born. Onward and upward!
Derek I. Schmitz 