McKenzie County Farmer - Latest News

M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer

At age seventeen, one Watford City student has faced more challenges than many experience in a lifetime, but her resilience and determination have transformed personal struggle, into a powerful force for good in her community. “Tricia” Schmitz, a senior at Watford City High School, is using her voice and personal experience to advocate for the implementation of comprehensive cardiac emergency response plans (CERPs) in North Dakota schools. Despite facing significant health challenges, including multiple strokes and a recent diagnosis of a brain tumor, the 17 year-old student leader is determined to make a difference.
In a recent interview, Schmitz shared a little of her journey in the hopes that her advocacy will help save lives. When she was eight years old, Tricia experienced her first stroke. Subsequent strokes followed, leaving doctors searching for answers for nearly a decade. This past summer, a diagnosis of pilocytic astrocytoma (a type of brain tumor that arises from astrocytes, the supportive cells in the brain), finally provided clarity.
Her years of navigating the medical system ignited a passion in Schmitz to advocate for others facing similar struggles. “Two of my strokes happened in school,” she explained. “My teachers, parents, and myself were unprepared and did not know what to do. I have been in these emergency situations with no plan in place to get me the help I needed.” Thankfully, she received the necessary care, but the experience highlighted a critical gap in emergency preparedness.
Now, as president of the National Honor Society and vice president of the Student Council, Schmitz is taking action.
She’s working with the American Heart Association’s Advocacy and Engagement Committee, where she uses her experiences to advocate for legislation like the CERPs Bill. A CERP, Schmitz explained, is “a practiced plan including people who are AED (Automated External Defibrillator) and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) certified, responding to a cardiac emergency. It is important because schools are central points for communities for all events, and being prepared is important.”
Schmitz’s advocacy work has taken her to the North Dakota State Legislature, where she has met with lawmakers to share her story and emphasize the importance of CERPs. “It has been an exciting, fun, and informational process all in one,” she said. While she acknowledges the challenges of balancing schoolwork and advocacy, she remains committed to her cause. “I make sure that I take time for each thing, whether that is meetings or homework.”
Her efforts have garnered support from her family, friends, and community. She has also collaborated with organizations like the American Heart Association and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Schmitz even organized “Dodge-ball for Heart” tournaments at her school to raise funds for the American Heart Association.
Tricia is proud of her endeavors, and for good reason: “The most rewarding aspect has definitely been getting involved with other stroke survivors and hearing their stories,” Schmitz shared. “Being so young and experiencing these things are not typical, and it is rewarding to share experiences with similar individuals.”
Looking ahead, Schmitz plans to pursue a degree in political science and then attend law school. She believes her advocacy work has provided valuable insights into the legislative process and the legal system. Her advice to other young people wanting to make a difference? “Get involved within local organizations through the school or community such as Student Council, and reach out to your legislators about your curiosity.”
Schmitz’s message to the students and families of North Dakota is clear: “It can happen to anyone at any time, and it is always better to be proactive.” Her dedication to ensuring cardiac emergency preparedness in schools is a testament to her resilience and her commitment to protecting the lives of others.

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