Olympic gold medalist visits Texas Children’s Pediatrics with medal in hand

August 30, 2016

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Texas Children’s Pediatrics had a very special visit this week from Olympic gold medalist Simone Manuel, the first African-American woman to win an individual Olympic gold medal in a swimming event.

Shortly after returning from Rio to her hometown of Sugar Land, Manuel visited Texas Children’s Pediatrics Green Park to see her long-time pediatrician Dr. Michael Connelly.

“Our entire Green Park office was excited to see Simone and her 100-meter freestyle Gold,” Connelly said. “Last September she was kind enough to bring her gold medal from the World Championship in Barcelona (4X100 relay) for me to see. Admittedly, when I saw her on my schedule this week I hoped she would bring Olympic Gold, and she didn’t disappoint.”

Manuel set an Olympic record by tying Canada’s Penny Oleskiak in the women’s 100-meter freestyle, and she helped the U.S. take gold in the 4X100-meter medley relay. She also landed silver medals in the 50-meter freestyle and the 4X100-meter freestyle race.

“When she won the 100-meter freestyle, I must admit I got emotional, even a bit teary eyed – such an accomplishment for a wonderful young lady,” Connelly said of his patient of more than 14 years. “Simone is a world class athlete but also world class in every sense. She is smart, kind, always pleasant and a joy to be with. She was most patient and engaging with the staff while we admired her gold.”

Congratulations Simone from the entire Texas Children’s family!