Name, Title and Work Location
Omar Crespo, team lead for the Pathology Department at our Medical Center campus.
How long have you worked at Texas Children’s?
I have worked at Texas Children’s for 15 years.
Tell us about your role and what you do.
As a team lead in the Pathology department, I support the team in several ways, including assisting with difficult blood draws, managing supply ordering and helping coordinate workload pool orders. I also work closely with physicians to ensure orders are accurate and corrected when needed, helping keep workflows running smoothly for patient care.
What inspired you to join Texas Children’s?
My mom worked at Texas Children’s and later retired from the hospital. She always told me it was a great place to work, and I had always wanted to help people. Eventually, I joined Texas Children’s too, and now my sister works here as well. It feels special to be part of something that means so much to my family.
What do you like most about the culture at Texas Children’s?
The culture here is incredibly inspiring. I’m not the same person I was when I started 15 years ago. The people I work with motivate me to be a better person, not just at work, but in life. Texas Children’s is part of the community, and I’m proud to represent the hospital wherever I go. When people recognize the logo, they often share stories about how the hospital impacted their lives, and that means a lot to me.
Can you share a memorable experience with a patient or coworker?
There are so many memorable moments. Our patients come from all over the world, and many of them become like family. One of my favorite experiences was being part of the Texas Children’s Disney Heroes program, which gave me unforgettable memories with patients and colleagues.
What was the Disney Heroes program, and how did it impact your work?
The Disney Heroes program sent team members to Disney World to learn about customer service and Disney culture. We brought those lessons back to Texas Children’s and applied them to how we care for patients and families. It inspired us to work even harder and focus on creating meaningful experiences during some of the most important moments in people’s lives.
Can you tell us about a patient who inspired you?
One patient who inspired me was a young chef and entrepreneur. He spent time cooking in the cafeteria at the Pavilion for Women and even had sponsorships from brands like H-E-B and Goya. Today, he runs his own seasoning business at just 18 years old. Despite facing serious health challenges, he continued to follow his dreams, and I was grateful to be part of his journey.
During my time with Disney Heroes, I shared his story, and he received a Ratatouille chef coat and hat. Every time he visits the lab, we talk about food, restaurants and what he’s working on next. I’ve seen him through surgeries, setbacks and victories, and watching his growth has been incredibly meaningful.
What advice would you give to someone new at Texas Children’s?
Learn, grow and always listen. Take the time to talk with people, learn from their experiences and share your own. Texas Children’s brings people together from so many backgrounds, and there is so much you can learn just by being open and engaged.
How did it feel to be nominated for this recognition?
I truly appreciate it. I came to Texas Children’s with no experience, and now it’s been 15 years. I’ve grown alongside this organization and developed skills I never thought I’d have, including becoming ultrasound certified. I’ve built strong relationships with doctors and leaders across departments, and everything comes back to communication and teamwork to make things easier for our patients.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?
I’m a big music fan and love going to concerts around Houston. I also enjoy exercising, jogging, spending time with my family and following sports.
I am Texas Children’s because…
My team inspires me.
