12/17/2024
As a physical therapist, I’ve had the privilege of working with athletes from all walks of life, helping them overcome injuries, optimize performance, and achieve their goals. However, there’s one event that holds a special place in my heart – the Boston Marathon. Volunteering at this iconic race isn’t just about providing medical assistance; it’s about being part of a community united by a passion for running and a commitment to supporting each other.
From the crack of dawn on Marathon Monday, the excitement in the air is palpable. Volunteers, spectators, and runners alike fill the streets of Boston with anticipation and energy. As I join my fellow medical professionals, I can’t help but feel a sense of purpose knowing that we’re here to support the thousands of athletes embarking on this challenging journey.
The first few hours are relatively calm as we have meetings, prepare our stations, and review emergency protocols. But as the race progresses, we get busy. I am stationed at the finish line which is both busy, tiring, and amazing. I am lucky enough to see so many finishers cross the line and see the emotion they feel. I am also triaging runners from the finish area to the medical tent if they need it. Being a warm sunny day in Boston yesterday, I saw a lot of dehydrated and hyponatremic (low salt) patients and helped them to be seen in the medical tent.
One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering at the Boston Marathon is witnessing the resilience of the human spirit. Despite fatigue and discomfort, the runners push through with determination and grit. It’s a reminder of the incredible power of the human body and the importance of mental strength in overcoming physical challenges.
As a physical therapist, my role extends beyond just treating injuries. It’s about offering support, reassurance, and guidance to help athletes reach their full potential. Whether it’s applying ice packs to sore muscles, providing stretching techniques, or simply lending a listening ear, every interaction is an opportunity to make a difference.
But perhaps the most poignant moments are those of triumph and perseverance. Watching runners cross the finish line, some with tears of joy streaming down their faces is a testament to the months of training, sacrifice, and determination culminating in this single moment. And knowing that I played a small part in their journey fills me with a sense of pride and gratitude.
Volunteering at the Boston Marathon is not just a duty; it’s a privilege. It’s a chance to give back to a sport that has given me so much and to be part of something greater than myself. As I pack up my gear at the end of the day, exhausted but exhilarated, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to be part of this incredible event. And I know I’ll be back next year, ready to do it all over again.
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