SPOKANE, Wash. – This weekend, the Whitworth Pirates will play their last football game of the regular season. For one former player, the journey from the gridiron to a medical career has been life-changing.
Dr. Emilio Sulpizio, now working at the MultiCare Cancer Institute, traded his shoulder pads for a lab coat. He uses his competitive spirit to achieve results for cancer patients.
“I had the opportunity to make wonderful connections, play the sport I love, get a great education, and I know not everyone is that fortunate,” Sulpizio said.
Emilio Sulpizio’s passion for football began in third grade, following in the footsteps of his older brother. His journey took him through Northwood Middle School, Mead High School and eventually to Whitworth University.
“He had the same coaching staff… a lot of the same process… so I learned a lot just kind of following in his footsteps,” Sulpizio said.
While becoming a Pirate was a significant achievement, it was not the end of his football career. He had the opportunity to play football in Europe.
“The opportunity came up to play football in Europe, and I thought it was a good opportunity to continue my glory days a little bit… and see something new,” Sulpizio said.
However, those glory days were short-lived. Emilio had known since high school that he would one day practice medicine. This decision was influenced by the passing of his father, who worked as an X-ray technician and died from a heart attack.
“It kind of rocks your world… you feel as a 15-year-old that you kind of have to be the man of the house,” Sulpizio said.
Desiree Sulpizio, Emilio’s wife, reflected on this pivotal moment.
“For being such a fun-loving guy, it was a defining life moment for sure,” she said.
Emilio’s father’s passing motivated him to stay close to home and pursue a medical career. Now, he works at the MultiCare Cancer Institute, where memories of his father are ever-present.
“And so I walk by his office most days when I go to see patients in the hospital… and that is not lost on me, when I’m walking in the same hallways he did,” Sulpizio said.
He applies the life skills learned in football to his medical practice, supporting his patients and colleagues.
Kristen Froelich, a MultiCare nurse, noted, “The group setting and picking people up when they’re down… I see that in his everyday interactions with patients and with colleagues as well.”
Desiree emphasized his dedication. “Emilio was made to be a physician… it’s a calling for him,” she said.
Sulpizio aims to empower his patients.
“I tell my patients they’re the boss… and I’m here to guide and support them through this journey the best that I can… and so again… trying to put them on my team,” he said.
