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“It’s easy in life to take simple things like walking, talking, or playing for granted, until you see children who have to fight for those very things every day. Witnessing kids with disabilities opens your eyes to a deeper understanding and the true meaning of courage.”
These words open the essay from our 2026 scholarship recipient, Charlize Duemmel, of St. Elizabeth, Missouri! Charlize has been a dedicated softball player since she was a little girl, and the sport has given her lifelong friendships, invaluable teamwork skills, and an experience that would go on to shape her entire future.
During the summer of her senior year, Charlize’s softball coach asked the team if anyone wanted to help with the Miracle League, an organization that gives kids with disabilities the chance to play baseball. Charlize immediately said yes. That night at Binder Park in Jefferson City, she was paired with a little boy named Carson, who could not walk or speak due to his condition. She held his arms as he made his way around the bases on his knees, and spent the rest of the evening playing catch with him in the outfield.
By the end of the night, Carson had wrapped his arms around Charlize for a hug. She went home and broke down in tears telling her mom about him, moved by his enormous heart and his love for the people around him despite his challenges. That single evening changed the course of her future.
Charlize entered the “Build Your Dream Scholarship” contest because she recognized how much financial support could ease the burden of pursuing higher education. She sees the scholarship as a way to gain breathing room in paying for school, so she can focus fully on chasing her goals rather than worrying about the cost.
Inspired by her time with Carson, Charlize is pursuing a degree in Occupational Therapy at Drury University starting in the fall of 2026. Her goal is to work with children with disabilities, giving them the love, support, and opportunities every child deserves. She believes their abilities and potential are just as valuable as any other child’s, and she’s determined to spend her career proving it.
Congratulations, Charlize! We’re honored to support you as you take this next step toward a career built on compassion, and we know your future patients will be lucky to have you.