Pediatrics residents help young athletes during Special Olympics

Pediatrics resident physicians volunteer at the

Mobile Area Special Olympics.

To gain a better understanding of the patients they treat, a group of pediatrics residents from USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital joined the support team for the Mobile Area Special Olympics held at Davidson High School this spring. 

The Special Olympics brings together local athletes of all abilities and backgrounds in a space where everyone is celebrated for who they are. More than 420 athletes from local schools and adult facilities competed in track and field events during the Special Olympics meet. USA Health’s pediatrics residents joined some 110 teen volunteers and community helpers at the area high school. 

“It's important for pediatricians in training to see children with disabilities, not just when they are sick in the hospital but also when they're thriving, and the Special Olympics is a wonderful reminder of that,” said Haidee Custodio, M.D., Pediatrics Residency Program director and professor of pediatric infectious diseases at the Whiddon College of Medicine. “I hope we continue to participate every year.” 

By training in teaching hospitals and at medical clinics, new physicians can learn in an environment that integrates education, research, and patient care — an experience offering benefits to the healthcare staff and those they care for. Research shows patients treated in teaching hospitals had up to 20% higher odds of survival compared to those treated at non-teaching hospitals, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.  

Noor Buttar, D.O., a second-year resident physician, said taking part in the festivities was an eye-opening experience — not just as a physician, but more so as a pediatrician. 

“It was surreal to witness our remarkable population of special needs children truly shine on their special day,” she said. “What stood out to me most was the realization that creating an environment tailored to their adaptability is essential for helping them enjoy the everyday joys and experiences typical for their age.” 

Seeing teen volunteers actively participate also brought a sense of reassurance and hope, Buttar said, that the next generation is growing up with empathy, compassion, and a deep sense of connection and respect for individuals with special needs. 

Elijah, son of Rene Sprague, with a few of

the resident volunteers.

Rene Sprague, MSN, RN, FNP-C, who coordinates the Bridge Program at Children's & Women's Hospital, has a son, Elijah, with complex medical issues who has taken part in the event for 12 years. “One of my greatest professional joys is sharing the special needs population with our resident physicians,” she said. “I love showing them how happy and productive our kiddos' lives are when they are healthy and out of the hospital. Giving our residents the opportunity to see the fruits of their hard work is so rewarding — for them and for me.” 

First-year resident Carey Johnson, M.D., who is also a graduate of the Whiddon College of Medicine, partnered with Sprague’s son in an assisted wheelchair race where they earned first place. Volunteering at the Special Olympics deepened Johnson’s understanding of inclusion, resilience, and the power of community.  

“Being part of an event celebrating every athlete's ability and determination reminded me that success is about courage, effort and heart,” Johnson said. “I was inspired by the athletes’ enthusiasm and the genuine joy they brought to every event, regardless of the outcome. This experience was a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are. Those 'disabilities' are only labels, not limitations.”