Professional Athlete (NFL), Medical Cannabis Advocate, Corporate Wellness, Leadership and Keynote Speaker Mike James is currently an active American football player and the first professional athlete to file for a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) specifically for cannabis, a controversial decision that has thrust Mike into the global spotlight as an advocate to bring medical marijuana use out of the shadows as an alternative for addictive opioids. Mike grew up in Haines City, FL, and was one of the nation's top running backs. After graduating with a full athletic scholarship from the University of Miami, Mike was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2013. As a professional athlete, his history making game against the Seattle Seahawks, rushing for 158 yards, lead him to be officially declared “a force to be reckoned with”. The following week, during a Monday Night Football game against the Miami Dolphins, Mike suffered a devastating, season ending injury. Mike fought to return to his job and the sport that he loves. Back on the field, trauma to the body continued, including multiple concussions. Mike began to research natural forms of effective relief for chronic pain, brain injury recovery and cognitive function maintenance. He found that cannabis was a viable alternative. Mike is also an advocate for those that are underserved, underprivileged, or marginalized. He spends time volunteering to empower and encourage at-risk youth. Together with active athletes speaking out publicly in coordinated fashion, he is able to generate significant media interest. Since going public with the therapeutic use exemption (TUE), Mike and Dr. Sisley have been featured on CNN, BBC and Sirius XM. You can follow Mike on Instagram @mikejames