Guest speaker brings inspiration to the Mill
On Nov. 7, the Interact Club invited guest speaker Marsha Schmid to share the story of her life-altering stroke and the difficult road to recovery. Schmid left students with an awe-inspiring message of hope, resilience in the face of staggering adversity, and never giving up.
On Nov. 7, Interact Club invited guest speaker Marsha Schmid to speak at their morning meeting. Schmid provided the students with an inspiring story of resilience and never giving up while allowing them the opportunity to better appreciate all they have.
“[Marsha] Schmid was such an inspiration and really demonstrates the perseverance of humans and how it’s never [impossible] to have a positive mindset,” Interact Club president and senior Quynh Phan said.
At only 33 years old, Schmid went to a chiropractor for a pain she was experiencing in her neck. There seemed to be nothing out of the ordinary with her visit. However, it turns out there was. While attempting to relieve her of neck pain, the chiropractor inadvertently snapped one of the arteries supplying blood to her brain. This reduced blood flow to the brain, causing a stroke.
Schmid’s story, while tragic, is a source of inspiration for anyone who hears it.
— A&E co-Editor Dana Gould
This unfortunate incident left Schmid completely paralyzed and in a state called locked in syndrome. People in this condition are aware of their surroundings but unable to communicate verbally or move. Schmid remained in this state for three months before finally becoming responsive. Surprisingly, after three months without the ability to speak, move, or even open her eyes, Schmid had not yet lost hope or given up.
At this point, however, only a portion of the battle was won as Schmid had years of therapy ahead of her. Therapy to learn how to breathe without a machine again, therapy to learn how to swallow again, therapy for almost anything imaginable. While the road to recovery would be a long one, Schmid never lost hope and her condition continued to improve little by little.
Schmid’s story, while tragic, is a source of inspiration for anyone who hears it. She shares her personal tragedy in hopes of providing students with the hope that things get better and that giving up is not an option.
Members of the Interact Club asked her questions, to which she answered blatantly and truthfully. The opportunity also helped Schmid get closer to accomplishing her own goal of becoming a motivational speaker.
“[She] put everything in perspective. Sometimes we take everything for granted and do not appreciate what we have until [it is gone]. Looking at her story made me appreciate everything that I have,” Interact Club sponsor Marcela Sample said.
*Sample and the Interact Club would like to thank Marsha Schmid for sharing her inspirational story and Dr. Chris Boehm for introducing Schmid to the entire group.
Jerry Marting • Jun 25, 2018 at 5:03 pm
WOW!!! Marsha you are such an inspiration to everyone. I have known you for just a little while and I can’t say enough positive things about you. Your heart is made of pure gold. I am completely blessed to be a part of your life. Thank you Marsha for Who You Are. If I do the only measure up to have the person that you are then I would be extremely thrilled with myself. Your testimony is a hundred percent praise and honor to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jerry Marting • Jun 25, 2018 at 4:47 pm
WOW!!! Truly amazing. I have known Marsha for only just a little while now and I am completely amazed at who she is. She is an extraordinary example of persistence. If I Only Had half the heart and determination that she has I would be blessed. Thank you so much Marsha for sharing your life to adventure with us. Just by looking at Marsha we all can see how great of a God we have. Thank you so much Jesus for Marsha.
Rob Martin-Dietrich • Dec 10, 2017 at 8:28 am
Marsha is one of the most inspirational people you will EVER meet. Her sense of humor is always present, participating in most events and holidays dressing up and making fun of herself (at times). She is an amazing person and I encourage you to support her journey for Ms Wheelchair USA
Sabrima Cocbran • Dec 7, 2017 at 6:06 pm
Marsha was and is a true inspiration to all. She was driven even before the accident! Her determination and drive is to be commendened. She has always been and is an over achiever! She was voted in High school “Most likely to become Preisdent”, I believe that nothing can stop a true believer of dedication and determination! She is a Wonder Woman of today’s woman, overcoming so many obstacles,titles, and expectations. I am honored to call her friend. Anyone that would have the opportunity to hear to speak will be forever changed.
Lisa Klinger • Dec 7, 2017 at 9:40 am
Marsha is a remarkable lady whom I call my friend. I’ve been through a lot myself and it was good to meet someone with such drive and determination. She is such an inspiration !!
I give her MORE than 5 stars!!
I pressed 5stsrs it it put 4. Hope someone can change that!
Estella • Dec 7, 2017 at 9:13 am
Marsha is such a beautiful person inside and out. I am blessed to know her. She is truly and inspiration!!!!
Estella • Dec 7, 2017 at 9:15 am
*an inspiration 😀