Bloomsday brings tens of thousands of people into the Spokane streets each year. Along the way, Providence caregivers are there to help, starting early on the course and staying through the finish line.
One of the first medical tents on the course is operated by Providence St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Medical Center. This tent is staffed by a handful of Providence volunteers, with a physician always present. In past years, medical residents have also volunteered alongside attending physicians to support runners and walkers.
One of the first medical tents on the course is operated by Providence St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Medical Center. This tent is staffed by a handful of Providence volunteers, with a physician always present. In past years, medical residents have also volunteered alongside attending physicians to support runners and walkers.Providence’s largest presence on the course is the medical tent on the Bloomsday finish line, which it has managed for more than a decade. Both tents are fully operated by Providence and focused on caring for runners and walkers as they recover.
Each year, about 30 Providence caregivers volunteer nearly an entire day at the finish line tent to ensure they are ready and able to accept all participants who seek help. The team includes caregivers in clinical and support roles, with a physician onsite throughout the entirety of race day.
Each year, about 30 Providence caregivers volunteer nearly an entire day at the finish line tent to ensure they are ready and able to accept all participants who seek help. The team includes caregivers in clinical and support roles, with a physician onsite throughout the entirety of race day.Both medical tents are open to anyone who needs them. Some people stop in because they feel lightheaded or worn down. Others need care for blisters, sore muscles, or minor injuries. The finish line tent is also equipped with cots for rest and wheelchairs to help people move safely if needed.
Care at the tents can be quick or more involved. Providence caregivers regularly treat dehydration and post-race confusion, and they respond to falls and injuries as they happen. Head strikes and cuts are carefully evaluated, with next steps discussed if additional care is needed.
Weather often shapes how busy the tents become. Hot conditions tend to bring more runners seeking assistance. In a typical year, the finish line tent can see around 1,000 runners. But in warmer years, the number can be as high as 2,000.
Providence provides all medical supplies for both tents, including medications and essential treatment equipment. What keeps the tents running, however, is the caregivers who volunteer their time. They represent Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, Providence Holy Family Hospital, Providence St. Luke's Rehabilitation Medical Center and Providence Medical Group.
By being present from the early miles to the finish line, Providence continues its long-standing commitment to caring for the community during one of Spokane’s most meaningful events.
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