Thirteen medical students from the UAB Heersink School of Medicine and one resident physician spent their Memorial Day serving runners and honoring fallen heroes during the 45th annual Cotton Row Run on Monday, May 26, 2025, in downtown Huntsville.
The Cotton Row Run, hosted by the Huntsville Track Club, has become a cherished Memorial Day tradition in the South. This year’s race welcomed nearly 3,500 participants from across the region and served as a moving tribute to military service members who gave their lives in defense of our country. Proceeds from the event benefit Gold Star Families and charitable organizations throughout the community. Among the most powerful moments of the day is the living memorial flag line along the course, honoring fallen warriors with ties to North Alabama.
Heersink students volunteered in the race’s medical tent, offering first aid, hydration, and support to runners participating in the 10K and 5K events Under the supervision of regional Dean Roger Smalligan, M.D., Ahmed Qaedi, M.D., an Internal Medicine resident at UAB Heersink School of Medicine Huntsville Campus, and Mary D’Arienzo RN, the team responded to heat-related illnesses, minor injuries, and muscle cramps—common issues during endurance events in the Alabama heat.
“I am so proud of our UAB students,” said Smalligan. “They showed up early on a holiday Monday and worked as a team to help the runners. Their smiling faces and caring attitudes were an encouragement to many!”
“Many of us who volunteered are new to the Huntsville area, so this event gave us a chance to interact with our new community in a fun way,” said third-year medical student Alysse Lalonde. “It was awesome to see people of all ages and backgrounds support each other throughout the race!”
“Taking the initiative to give back to our community was truly rewarding”, said Dr. Qaedi. “It was the key cherished moments of working hand in hand with the rest of the medical students to serve and put a smile on both the young and old.”
Their presence underscored UAB Heersink School of Medicine’s commitment to service, education, and community involvement.