Today was the first day of the rest of my life as a Pediatrician.

I could hardly sleep the night before because I was so excited, yet anxious at the same time. I went from prepping notes, rounding, lunch, noon report, huddle and then back to finishing those notes……to an admission, presenting, sign out then it was peace out with so much more in between…

The day went by so fast but I can’t forget the one person that I would have loved to be present, here with me to see this day. My papa.

He was born and raised in Blakely, Georgia.

He loved music; he played the organ, guitar and could scratch up the dance floor with some foot work.

I’m telling you, he would slide across the floor just like this. 🤣 🤣 🤣

My grandfather lost his sight at 16 years old but never lost his vision to achieve all he could for himself, his family and his community.

He went on to graduate as valedictorian from the Georgia Academy for the Blind then continued on to further his education at FAMU where he met my beautiful grandmother, Bertha Mae .

He was always involved in the community and was an incredible leader, receiving the highest honors as a Public Affairs Specialist, advocating for individuals and families for more than 44 years. As a host of his WLRN television and radio show, he provided health education to the community regarding their benefits for social security. He became known as “Mr. Social Security”.

He was a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., the HAM Radio/Operators/Florida Communicators Connection Association and president and board member of the National Federation for the Blind Miami-Dade Chapter.

On November 5, 2013, Miami-Dade County recognized him for his community advocacy and granted him a proclamation declaring November 5th “Henry L. Alexander Day”….my papa has a whole day named after him.

He always motivated me and pushed me to be better.

He never strayed away from having tough conversations and always gave those final words of wisdom at the end.

I can only imagine what he would say now knowing everything worked out and I became a physician.

I’m sure it would be no surprise to him since he always believed in me, his “Nikki Poo”.

I am forever grateful and I hope to continue his legacy as an advocate for my community.

Love you PAPA!