The following is reprinted with the permission of Charlotte Running Club and with collaboration from the team at Elizabeth 8k– Ed
Before the start of the Elizabeth 8k, an unexpected medical emergency unfolded as a volunteer experienced a seizure. The event took place in close proximity to the Charlotte Running Club (CRC) tent, where Dr. Katie Moore, an oncologist with Novant Health and member of the CRC, was warming up with friends. Leveraging her medical expertise, she promptly tended to the individual, and was quickly supported by Novant Health’s EMTs which were also on site for the race. Simultaneously, 911 was immediately contacted, and within minutes, paramedics were on location, ensuring comprehensive care for the affected volunteer.
This incident underscores the importance of being prepared for medical emergencies, both on and off the course. In the following interview, Dr. Moore shares her expertise on how to be prepared in case of a medical emergency so first responders can properly assist you or your fellow runners.
CRC: When you responded to the young man and looked at his phone and wallet, what were you looking for?
Dr. Moore: At that moment, I was trying to identify him and gather any medical information that could help guide care. I was looking for an ID, emergency contacts, or medical alerts—anything that could give context to what was happening and be passed along to first responders. I checked his iPhone to look for emergency medical information. Apple allows users to store health details—like conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts—that can be accessed even when the phone is locked. It’s a great tool more people should take advantage of. Unfortunately this gentleman did not have this activated on his phone and we were able to ascertain little information about him and nothing about his medical history.
CRC: Do you recommend something like a Road ID, and what should be on it?
Dr. Moore: Yes—tools like Road ID are incredibly helpful, especially for solo runners. I recommend including your name, an emergency contact, major medical conditions (like epilepsy or diabetes), allergies, and any medications that would be important in an emergency. It only takes a few seconds to read but can make all the difference.
CRC: What are some warning signs runners should watch for—especially when running alone?
Dr. Moore: Your body will usually give you clues when something’s wrong—you just must listen. Red flags include dizziness or lightheadedness, fatigue that isn’t normal, decreased sweat in a hot environment (heat stroke potential), shallow breathing, chest pain, difficulty catching your breath, elevated HR not normal for the workout you’re doing, blurry vision, nausea and vomiting.
CRC: What can runners do before, during, and after runs to help prevent medical issues?
Dr. Moore: Here are some helpful steps to take:
- Before: Hydrate, eat if needed, warm up, and let someone know your route.
- During: Pace yourself, stay aware of how you feel, and listen to warning signs.
- After: Cool down, rehydrate, and pay attention to lingering symptoms.
Always stay in tune with how you’re feeling. If something feels wrong, stop. Don’t try to push through. If you’re alone and concerned, call 911. If you can, contact a friend. It’s better to pause a run than risk your safety. As runners, we are used to pushing through discomfort, but listen to your body, sometimes it is trying to tell you something more serious.
CRC: Why is CPR Certification worth it for runners?
Dr. Moore: You never know when an emergency might happen—on a run, at the gym, in your neighborhood, or even at home. Getting CPR certified gives you the tools to step in and help when every second counts. For runners, it’s especially valuable since we’re often out in the community, sometimes in remote areas or among people pushing their physical limits. But beyond running, these skills can make a life-saving difference in everyday situations. It’s simple to learn, quick to do, and could help you save a life—on or off the trail.
From Rob Zabel, Race Director of the Elizabeth 8K
“I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Katie Moore for her swift and effective response during the recent medical emergency. Her actions, coupled with the immediate support from Novant Health’s EMTs, underscore the efficacy of our medical emergency strategy and plans.
Although medical professionals remain ever-ready, incidents might not always occur in their immediate vicinity, especially on extended race courses. In such instances, the timely reaction from fellow runners can substantially influence outcomes. Consequently, it’s imperative for everyone to be well-versed and prepared to respond responsibly. Fortunately, in this instance at the Elizabeth 8K, the response was quick and the individual is doing well.
Let’s continue fostering safety and awareness within our running community.”
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