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Emergency Medical Response Group is a student organization that provides free emergency medical service to the Foggy Bottom area and offers support for D.C.-area events year-round. EMeRG spokesperson Harland Westgate, a first-year law student, said group members volunteer their time off-campus to help "worthy cause(s)" and increase awareness of the organization.
"The Marine Corps Marathon in particular is an event that promotes a healthy lifestyle by encouraging exercise," Westgate wrote in an e-mail Saturday. "As healthcare providers, we're always thrilled to be able to support an effort to promote health."
Over 30,000 runners and 70,000 spectators attended the 26.2-mile race yesterday, which takes runners across the Key Bridge, down M Street, past the Hall on Virginia Avenue and along the National Mall. The four EMeRG volunteers woke up at about 3:30 a.m. to report to their campus office, pack up a 4-RIDE vehicle with their bikes, and report for the emergency response briefing at 5 a.m. The race ended at about 2 p.m.
Originally stationed at the Georgetown leg of the race, the crew was later assigned to Independence Avenue at about 8 a.m. because more medical personnel were needed in that area.
The students rode up and down the course on bikes with medical bags for treating marathon runners. Injuries typically range from pulled muscles to heart conditions, said senior Marc Berenson, one of two shift supervisors at the event.
"The Marine Corps Marathon provides a different opportunity because you tend to see a different type of patient," Berenson said. He added that he doesn't mind the early hours and enjoys the exercise.
