The Unsung Heroes of the Course: Appreciating Our Medical Volunteers
At the crack of dawn on race day, Grandma’s Marathon is already coming to life. Runners stretch, crowds gather, and anticipation builds. But before the first step is taken, a special group is already hard at work behind the scenes, ready to ensure that every participant, from the first finisher to the final runner, is cared for.
They are the medical volunteers, the quiet heroes who help keep Grandma’s Marathon safe year after year.
A Tradition of Care and Commitment
Every June, hundreds of nurses, doctors, EMTs, athletic trainers, and first responders come together to form one of the largest volunteer medical teams in the region. Spread across the 26.2-mile course, these volunteers provide everything from basic first aid to advanced medical response.
For them, it’s not just about treating injuries or responding to emergencies; it’s about doing meaningful work. Many have volunteered for years, even decades, returning each summer to share their expertise and compassion with the running community.
More Than Medicine
While the technical skills of the medical team are vital, what truly sets them apart is their empathy. They are the ones offering an encouraging smile when a runner doubts they can go on. They’re handing out ice, wrapping sore muscles, and sometimes offering just a few quiet words that help a runner find their strength again.
They see exhaustion, triumph, and emotion in every form, and they do it with calm, compassion, and professionalism. Their presence reminds every runner that they are never alone on the course.
A Partnership of Trust
Grandma’s Marathon’s medical operations are the result of months of careful planning and partnership between local hospitals, first responders, and volunteer coordinators. Together, they make sure that the care is available at every mile and that every participant finishes the race safely.
This partnership is built on trust between volunteers, staff, runners, and the community. It’s a reflection of what makes Grandma’s Marathon special: the shared spirit of Duluth and the North Shore, where everyone shows up to help each other succeed.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To every medical volunteer who gives their time, skill, and care to this event: thank you. You are truly the heartbeat of Grandma’s Marathon. Your commitment makes dreams possible, goals achievable, and memories unforgettable.
When runners cross the finish line, they may not always see you, but your presence is felt in every safe step they take. You are the strength behind the scenes, the calm in the storm, and the reason Grandma’s Marathon continues to shine as one of the most welcoming and well-supported races in the country.
From all of us at Grandma’s Marathon: We couldn’t do it without you. Thank you again!
👉 Learn more or sign up to volunteer: www.grandmasmarathon.com/volunteer
Franny Schmierer
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Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory:
My favorite part last year was getting to meet deaf runners and becoming friends with them, meeting Dakotah Popehn, and almost qualifying for the Boston Marathon (just one minute short!). I also loved reconnecting with my Duluthian friends, it’s always the best time of the summer.
Favorite post-race meal: Pho and Vietnamese coffee, nothing hits better after a race.
2026 running goal: To qualify for Boston, but also to make unforgettable memories, because this year will be extra special with the 50th anniversary of Grandma’s.
Advice to other runners: Celebrate the small wins along the way, every mile matters.