MECHANICSBURG, Pa. — The upcoming Olympic games in Paris will feature more than just world-class athletes.
UPMC Sports Physician Mark Lavallee will be making the trip as one of the lead doctors at the games.
"If it's something that you are passionate about of course it gets you all fired up," said Lavallee. "There is a lot of opportunity when you say yes even if it's volunteering and I never thought in a million years I would be going."
Lavallee will serve as one of the International Weightlifting Federation's chief medical officers. His 30-year career in medicine has included 27 years as the chairman of sports medicine for USA weightlifting.
"Our job is not about us or me," said Lavallee. "It's about providing care to those athletes to get them to make those amazing lifts and amazing goals."
Lavallee has previously served in other games all over the world such as the Pan Am games. He will be ready to spring into action should one of the Olympic lifters go down. He's hoping his dream come true will be an inspiration for other young doctors.
"It's been an honor and hopefully encouraging the next generation of athletes or maybe young sports doctors," said Lavallee. "I want them to realize there is a lot of opportunity when you say the power of yes."