Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM) Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Family Medicine Clerkship Director Dr. Michael Edwards volunteered his time during the Independence Day holiday to serve on the medical team for the Fourth of July celebration on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Edwards was among a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, emergency medical services personnel, firefighters and volunteers who provided care to attendees during the nation’s annual Independence Day celebration. According to Washington, D.C. NBC affiliate WRC-TV, more than 700 people received medical attention at the National Mall on the Fourth of July, with many cases related to extreme heat.
“Serving on the medical team for the Fourth of July celebration on the National Mall was one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” Edwards said. “It was an honor to work shoulder to shoulder with an extraordinary group of physicians, nurses, EMS providers, firefighters, and volunteers as we cared for the large number of people overcome by the extreme heat.”
Despite challenging conditions, Edwards said the experience demonstrated the power of teamwork and service.
“Despite the intensity of the day, the professionalism, skill, and dedication of every member of the team were remarkable,” he said. “I left with a profound appreciation for what can be accomplished when so many talented individuals come together with a common purpose: delivering the best possible care to those in need.”
Edwards’ volunteer service reflects LMU’s mission of preparing health care professionals dedicated to serving others and improving access to care in communities across the nation. As one of the nation’s largest educators of health professionals, LMU emphasizes hands-on training, community engagement and service throughout its programs.
WRC-TV reported on the medical response efforts during the event. The story is available at https://www.nbcwashington.com/video/news/local/hundreds-heat-related-illness-national-mall-fourth/4126798/.
About LMU-DCOM
The DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine is located on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee, at LMU-Knoxville in Knoxville, Tennessee, and at LMU Orange Park in Orange Park, Florida. LMU-DCOM is an integral part of LMU’s values-based learning community and is dedicated to preparing the next generation of osteopathic physicians to provide health care in the often-underserved region of Appalachia and beyond. For more information about LMU-DCOM, call 1.800.325.0900, ext. 7082, email dcom@LMUnet.edu, or visit us online at http://med.LMUnet.edu.
