Running a Marathon... Backwards!
Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 10:07PM ALTHOUGH THIS IS A HEADLINE FROM THE PAST, we keep it here for visitors to get a sense of the true dedication of our residents. Dr. MacDonald , now a UCSD faculty member, is just as energetic and enthusiastic about the combined approach to training and patient care as ever, and our residents continue to learn from him. Enjoy…
San Diego Doc Hits the Ground Running . . . Backward
May 29, 2000
St. Vincent's to Benefit from Unusual Marathon Technique
San Diego - As the starting gun fires to start this year's Suzuki Rock-n-Roll Marathon on June 4, there will be one participant who will have an unusual strategy to completing the 26.2-mile course: he'll be running backward.
Dr. Kai MacDonald, a third-year resident in the UCSD Combined Family Medicine-Psychiatry Residency Program, plans to tackle the lengthy course in this unique style to raise funds and awareness for St. Vincent de Paul Village's medical clinic, where he treats unsheltered and medically underserved members of the San Diego community.
As improbable as it seems, MacDonald has completed several marathons with his heels leading the way. "I love to run," says MacDonald, "and I believe you should take the things you love to do and help people." Last year, MacDonald's efforts raised over $1,000 for St. Vincent's medical clinic and he hopes this year will result in even more support.
"The clinic is truly state-of-the-art," says MacDonald, "and it provides clients the opportunity to benefit from specialists in the field." But while the physicians volunteer their time, there are still expenses that need to be covered, and MacDonald hopes San Diegans respond with even more fervor than last year. "People need to realize that we're assisting clients who are in great need of the services we offer," says MacDonald. "We currently provide the latest in care and medications, and with ongoing support we can continue to help." The combined residency program is a five-year cooperative effort between UCSD Medical Center and St. Vincent de Paul to explore, identify and address both the physical and mental health issues facing the homeless. It has drawn national attention from respected medical practitioners such as former American Medical Association President Dr. Nancy Dickey.
Update: Dr. MacDonald finished the entire marathon backward, despite high temperatures and high humidity that took many forward running competitors out of the race entirely. Congratulations to Kai for completing the "Backward Marathon" for St. Vincent De Paul Village two years in a row!