DALLAS– The SMU Mustangs today announced a new helmet design that will be worn during their Spring Game on Friday, April 14. For the first time in Mustang history, the team will showcase custom artwork designed by a seventeen-year-old Children's Health patient.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with Children's Health and share our new helmet design with fans at the April 14 Spring Game," said SMU Football Coach Rhett Lashlee. "Amulya is not only talented, but her journey also shows strength and dedication. We are honored to wear her design."

In February 2023, patients at Children's Health created one-of-a-kind designs for the football team's helmets. Thirteen patients ranging from ages six to 17 submitted their artwork, and Children's Health patient Amulya's design was selected as the winner.

"I am so grateful to SMU for providing me with the opportunity to share my artwork on the field," said Amulya, who was rushed to emergency room at Children's Health in December 2022 after she lost feeling in the left side of her face. "It was a source of motivation for me to recover my fine motor skills during my time at Children's Health, and I'm thrilled to see my design on the SMU football team's helmets."

Amulya was diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome, an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease where the immune system attacks the nervous system. Her symptoms spread to the right side of her face and down her spine. Amulya was unable to move her face or walk without a walker. She was in and out of the hospital over the next few months receiving monthly IVIG infusions, treatment and inpatient rehabilitation. After 53 days at Children's Health, Amulya was discharged.
"It was an emotional journey. I missed my friends. I missed a lot of my senior year. I still miss my smile. However, my journey taught me the meaning of gratitude. I'm forever grateful to the doctors, neurologists, nurses and therapists at Children's Health who worked tirelessly for my health."

Fans can view all 13 patient artworks submissions on https://smumustangs.com/helmet

Children's Health is the Official Pediatric Health Care Sponsor and proud supporter of SMU Athletics. Mustang Sports Properties, SMU Athletics' multimedia rightsholder and dedicated LEARFIELD team, manages the Children's Health sponsorship on behalf of the University.