Unsung heroes recognised with ‘life saver’ medals

They are the unsung heroes behind the heroes that compete in the ASICS Gold Coast Marathon.

Now the contribution of Gold Coast health care workers has been formally recognised in the form of “life saver” medals which were today presented to staff by GCM participant Juliette McAleer in a heartfelt thanks for helping her reach the finish line as a tube-fed runner.

Juliette, who has successfully completed the ASICS Gold Coast Marathon, Half Marathon and 5km events in recent years in a display of true courage and determination, said she wanted to thank the medical professionals who have played such a crucial role in her journey.

The special medals, designed by Juliette, were a symbolic gesture of gratitude to doctors, nurses and allied health staff who have supported her through treatment and training.

“After spending so many months in hospital over these last few years, I want you to know: I see you. You are heroes in my eyes,” Juliette told health workers in a heart-warming medals presentation at Gold Coast University Hospital.

“The medals I’ve had made for you are just a small gesture of thanks. They acknowledge that every runner benefits from your vigilance, your compassion, and your skill.

“You all give so much of yourselves in serving our communities, and this is just my little way to give something back – and to thank you on behalf of every runner like me who has felt safer, stronger, and braver because you were there.”

Juliette also credited the medical community for giving her the strength to not only finish the 42.195km race, but also to look forward with hope.

“Thank you for helping me find myself, for being a part of my story, and for making me brave enough to put one foot in front of the other – toward a future I can now say I am looking forward to.

“Your work matters, you are seen, you are valued and you are deeply appreciated.”

Emergency Department Acting Clinical Director Gold Coast Health Dr Hayley Frieslich said it was a wonderful reward for the many staff that work to keep competitors safe during the Gold Coast Marathon.

“I’ll treasure this medal,” she said.

“Sometimes it can be really difficult working in the environment which we do and there are some incredibly hard days.

“It’s really nice knowing that we do leave patients with a good feeling and they do appreciate what we do.”

Events Management Queensland CEO Ben Mannion said stories like Juliette’s were the ultimate reward for the team.

“We pride ourselves on providing runners with the best possible medical support and we are continually looking for ways to improve,” said Mannion.

“We are really proud of our medical team led by Hayley Frieslich, who are all important parts of the GCM family.

“To see Juliette not only achieve her goals but also recognise the medical team in such a heartfelt way makes it all worthwhile.”